(WASHINGTON) – A United States bill aimed at imposing 100 percent tariffs on major buyers of Russian energy has stalled in the House of Representatives, with a vote potentially delayed until after the November midterm elections. The legislation, already approved by the Senate last month by a margin of 86 to 11, would grant President Donald Trump the authority to penalise nations purchasing Russian oil and gas or assisting Moscow in circumventing energy sanctions. China, India and Turkey are identified as the principal buyers of Russian energy resources.
House Speaker Mike Johnson has indicated that a vote before the November elections is uncertain. He noted that leading Democrats oppose the current draft, while concerns also exist among Republicans. Some lawmakers from both parties fear the measure would hand Trump sweeping new tariff powers.
Members of Congress are also evaluating the potential impact on fuel costs. Should India and other importers of Russian crude be compelled to seek alternative suppliers, analysts warn that global oil and gasoline prices could rise sharply.
The Senate passed the bill with strong bipartisan support, but equivalent backing in the House is currently lacking. The delay comes as European Union member states are separately advancing a new package of sanctions against Russia.
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