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US Senator from South Carolina Lindsey Graham said that US tariffs on India are the “chief reason,” India has reduced its purchases of Russian oil, linking the policy to Washington’s efforts to pressure Moscow over the war in Ukraine.
Speaking alongside President Donald Trump aboard Air Force One on January 4, 2026, Senator Graham recalled a recent conversation with India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra. “I was at the Indian Ambassador’s house about a month ago, and all he wanted to talk about is how they’re buying less Russian oil. Would you tell the President to relieve the tariff?” he said.
“This stuff works,” Graham added, expressing hope that Congress would soon take up a Tariffs Bill. He said the proposal would authorize tariff levels ranging from zero to 500 percent, with the final decision resting with the President.
“If you’re buying cheap Russian oil, keeping Putin’s war machine going, we’re trying to get President the ability to make that a hard choice by tariffs,” Senator Graham said. “I really do believe that what he did with India is the chief reason India is now buying substantially less Russian oil. So, I hope we pass this Bill soon.”
President Trump offered praise and caution at the same time. “Modi’s a very good man. He is a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy. They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” Trump said.
Interestingly, in a December 16 social media post, the US Embassy in India highlighted improving India US relations, describing Prime Minister Modi as a “great friend” while quoting a message from President Trump underscoring closer bilateral partnership.
“India is home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations. It is an amazing country and an important strategic partner for America in the Indo-Pacific region. We have a great friend in PM Modi,” President Trump wrote.
President Trump during the press briefing on Air Force One also described the proposed Tariffs Bill as “great legislation” that is expected soon. Addressing the broader impact of tariffs, Senator Graham said, “I don’t think we could have secured the border without the threat of tariffs. I don’t think we’d have a European trade deal without the threat of tariffs.”
Senator Graham said pressuring Russia’s customers is critical to ending the Russia Ukraine war, noting that President Trump has sanctioned Russia’s two largest oil companies. He described the move as the most significant pressure applied to President Vladimir Putin since the conflict began.
“I hope we pass this Bill soon,” Graham said, adding that the legislation already has 85 co-sponsors including India. “This bill would allow a 25 per cent tariff on India for buying Russian oil,” he added.
Describing his experience with President Trump, Senator Graham in his social media post on January 5, noted “Another great day with President Trump who has brought America back, stronger than ever, at home and abroad. God bless our Commander in Chief and all of the brave men and women who serve under him.”
Pointing out that he is “proud” to be an American, the Senator added “God bless and protect the brave people of Iran who are standing up to tyranny.”
In a joint statement issued on July 14, 2025, Senator Graham and Senator Richard Blumenthal said their bipartisan Russia sanctions legislation would authorize tariffs of up to 500 percent on countries that purchase Russian oil and gas and do not support Ukraine.
“The congressional legislation authorizing tariffs and sanctions would truly be a sledgehammer for President Trump to end this war, and it will allow for maximum flexibility to achieve that end,” they said, adding that the approach blends congressional authorization with presidential flexibility, making it legally and politically durable.
During the same remarks, President Trump described the Russian economy as “lousy,” but said the Venezuelan economy is even worse. He cited soaring inflation in the South American country, saying prices are doubling daily and calling the situation a disaster. “We got to fix the country fast,” he said.
