WASHINGTON, OCT 17 — US President Donald Trump signed a key waiver suspending the implementation of duties and restrictions authorized under the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act. The presidential order effectively removes the immediate threat of steep import tariffs against major purchasers of Russian oil and gas.
The executive measure rests on provisions within the legislation, commonly referred to as the Graham Act, which permit presidential interventions for strategic considerations.
“Pursuant to section 115(a) of the Graham Act, I hereby waive the application of any duties provided for in sections 112 and 113 of the Graham Act or this order,” President Trump stated in the order.
| Key Aspect | Legislation Details |
| Law Implemented | Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (Graham Act) |
| Tariff Provisions | Up to 100 per cent duty on major energy importers |
| Exemption Mechanism | Section 115 national interest waiver |
| Bilateral Context | Precedes US Secretary of State visit to India |
The diplomatic move follows high-level engagement between New Delhi and Washington. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously conveyed to US officials that Indian refining facilities depend on specific crude blends, noting that light grades from the US require blending before processing. With Middle East crude flows affected by the war in Iran, continued access to Russian oil remains vital for maintaining domestic refining output and economic stability.
The Graham Act had granted authority to impose duties within 30 days of enactment on top energy buyers. Section 113 specifically targeted nations purchasing Russian-origin crude or natural gas. By exercising the waiver, the administration has chosen to stabilize trade relations and energy availability as diplomatic talks continue.
