India vows to protect interests, as US clears bill to punish Russian oil buyers
The US House of Representatives passed a bipartisan sanctions bill targeting Russia over the Ukraine war; the Senate had already passed it, and it is expected to be signed by President Trump. India said it had apprised Washington of the likely impact on bilateral ties and the global oil market and would take all necessary steps to safeguard its energy security and economic interests. Crude oil prices topped $100 a barrel, and India imports about 90% of its crude oil, more than a third from Russia.
Why it matters: The episode directly engages the briefing's theme of energy security, as India's reliance on Russian crude is now subject to US legislative pressure with potential tariff consequences.