law that targets countries buying Russian oil. And yes, that includes us. India is Russia’s second-largest crude buyer after China. A new U.S. Act could slap 100% tariffs on our imports; a move that risks spiking fuel prices, hurting inflation, and pressuring the rupee. What’s ironic? The U.S. itself imported $1.19 billion worth of Russian uranium in 2023; and still buys Russian fertilisers, chemicals, and metals. Double standards? Maybe. Strategic bluff? Possibly. But for India, this isn’t just about oil; it’s about sovereignty. If we back down, we signal that our ‘strategic autonomy’ is negotiable. If we hold firm, we risk economic pain. The world’s rules are changing; and India must navigate them without losing its voice.