US Senators Rob Wyden and Rand Paul opposed proposed 100% tariffs on India and China during a Senate debate on a Russia sanctions bill, warning that the measure could hurt American interests and strain ties with key partners.

During the debate, Senator Paul described the tariff proposal as America “shooting itself in the foot,” arguing that imposing such steep duties would destabilise the US relationship with India. Senator Wyden also voiced opposition to the tariff provisions.

Also Read | India, others at risk of up to 100% tariffs as US Senate votes to advance Russia sanctions bill

The remarks came as the US Senate advanced a Russia sanctions bill that could expose India and four other countries to 100% tariffs over their continued trade with Russia. The sweeping legislation, authored by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, was moved forward on July 28 during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to the US Capitol.

If enacted in its current form, the bill could significantly impact countries that continue importing Russian energy and other goods, with India among those potentially affected.