In a provocative move, United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to “substantially” raise tariffs on India, escalating tensions between the two nations that have seen some strides toward improved relations in recent years.
Trump took to social media on Monday to express his grievance, accusing India of buying and selling “massive amounts” of Russian oil for significant profits while seemingly disregarding the human toll of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The President emphasized the severity of the situation in his post, stating, “They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine.”
He further declared, “Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA. Thank you for your attention to this matter!!!”
However, Trump did not provide specifics regarding the new tariff rates or the timeline for their implementation.
According to recent US government data, imports from India totaled $87.4 billion in goods in 2024, highlighting the significance of India in the US trade landscape.
This latest announcement follows Trump’s previous announcement of 25 percent tariffs on Indian goods. This prior decision was attributed to various factors, including India’s tariffs on US products and its ongoing purchases of Russian oil and military supplies.
In response to these accusations, India’s Ministry of External Affairs voiced strong rejection of the Western criticism directed at its business dealings with Russia.
Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India’s energy imports are conducted to ensure stable and affordable energy for its citizens.
He stated, “In this background, the targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable. Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.”
The relationship between India and Russia has been marked by a steady partnership, with India significantly increasing its imports of Russian oil—reportedly more than sixfold—since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, as highlighted by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).
In a reaffirming statement, Jaiswal noted that India would continue to uphold its relationship with Russia despite Trump’s criticisms.
He remarked, “Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country. India and Russia have a steady and time-tested partnership.”
As Trump’s administration grapples with the ongoing situation in Ukraine, he previously attempted a neutral stance to potentially mediate the conflict, but his position has shifted toward stronger criticism of Russia in recent weeks, including threats of additional sanctions.
In related developments, White House envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit Russia for discussions aimed at ending the war.
The conflict, which began in February 2022, has evolved into a protracted struggle for control over Ukraine’s eastern territories after Russia’s initial assault to capture Kyiv was repelled.
White House aide Stephen Miller accentuated the urgency of the matter on Sunday, claiming that India is effectively “financing” Russia’s military endeavors in Ukraine.
Miller claimed, “People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil. That’s an astonishing fact.”
As tensions rise between the US and India, the unfolding geopolitical dynamics will likely have significant implications for international relations moving forward.
image source from：aljazeera
