According to a report from Reuters, former President Donald Trump announced plans to significantly increase tariffs on imports from India due to the country’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil. In response, Indian officials have labeled this targeting as “unjustified” and are prepared to take necessary actions to protect their economic interests.
Last week, Trump indicated that negotiations with India regarding trade were still in progress after revealing a 25% tariff on goods imported from the nation would take effect. This move comes as India faces mounting pressure from Western nations, particularly the U.S., urging it to reduce its ties with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Despite this pressure, New Delhi has maintained its position based on historical relationships and economic necessities.
“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian oil; they are also selling much of it at significant profits,” Trump stated via Truth Social. “Because of this, I will be substantially raising the tariff paid by India.”
The specifics regarding the new tariff rates remain unclear. However, two anonymous sources within the Indian government confirmed that despite Trump’s threats, India intends to continue its oil purchases from Russia.
The geopolitical landscape has complicated trade discussions between Washington and New Delhi. Trump’s administration has criticized India’s involvement with BRICS—a coalition of developing nations including Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa—characterizing it as antagonistic towards U.S. interests. In contrast, BRICS members argue that their collaboration serves mutual benefits for developing countries.
An official spokesperson for India’s foreign ministry emphasized that safeguarding national interests is paramount: “The targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable.” The spokesperson further explained that India’s decision to import Russian oil was driven by a need for affordable energy amidst shifting global supply chains exacerbated by conflict in Ukraine.
“It is revealing that those criticizing us are themselves engaged in trade with Russia,” noted the spokesperson.
Additionally, tensions have arisen over Trump’s claims regarding an India-Pakistan ceasefire he announced earlier this year via social media—a situation New Delhi believes should be resolved independently without external influence.
