Trump Waives Russian Oil Tariffs, Gives India Temporary Relief

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order waiving additional tariffs of up to 100 per cent on major buyers of Russian oil, providing temporary relief to India. The move eases the immediate threat of fresh trade penalties, but the underlying legislation remains in force.

This allows the US administration to withdraw the waiver and revive tariff pressure during future trade negotiations.

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"For India, the waiver buys time but offers no lasting certainty. India should protect its energy security, buy oil on commercial terms and prepare for renewed US pressure. Temporary tariff relief is no basis for permanent trade concessions," said Ajay Srivastava.

Founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), as quoted by PTI.

Background Context

The Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. Signed by Trump on Friday, provides for additional tariffs of 100 per cent on goods from the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and natural gas making fresh purchases from October 18. It also sets out a 500 per cent tariff increase on Russian goods.

Reasons for Waiver

GTRI claimed several factors that may have influenced Washington's decision. This includes its domestic energy requirements, trade arrangements with China and ongoing negotiations with India. The US agreed on October 9 to purchase Russian diesel to address domestic fuel shortages and elevated prices.

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Making it difficult to justify penalties on other countries for similar purchases.

Next Steps

The US Trade Representative will continue monitoring Russian energy purchases, leaving Washington with the option of reviewing the relief. The waiver has no fixed expiry date and can be withdrawn. Existing Russia-related sanctions imposed under other executive orders remain unaffected.