<h1>US imposes extra tariffs and 25% surcharge on partner for buying Russian oil; $100,000 fee hits new H-1B visas</h1> A senior US official stated that the United States imposed additional tariffs on a close partner for purchasing Russian oil as part of measures against Russia, including a 25% surcharge that raised total levies to 50%; legislation concerning tariffs on purchasers of Russian oil and gas was also cited. The officials held bilateral talks addressing trade, defense, energy and security guarantees for a conflict-affected country. Separately, a presidential proclamation instituted a USD 100,000 fee on new H-1B visas, prompting concern among skilled-worker communities. The developments signal heightened trade friction and potential legal and diplomatic disputes over sanctions, tariffs and immigration policy.