WASHINGTON: Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and Republican ally of Donald Trump, Nikki Haley, has issued a stern warning to India over its continued imports of Russian oil.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Haley urged New Delhi to work closely with the White House to find a resolution, saying that the sooner such cooperation begins, the better.
“India must take President Trump’s stance on Russian oil seriously and work with the White House to find a path forward — the sooner, the better,” Haley posted, highlighting growing concern within the Trump administration over India’s economic ties with Moscow.
Tensions between Washington and New Delhi have escalated in recent weeks after the Trump administration imposed secondary tariffs on India for its continued purchase of Russian crude oil. These tariffs, reportedly exceeding 50%, are among the highest levied so far under the Trump administration, and have been described by Indian officials as “unfair and unnecessary.”
In a recent op-ed, Haley warned that U.S.-India relations are “on the brink of collapse” if mutual understanding is not restored. Despite the friction, Haley emphasized the strategic importance of the U.S.-India partnership, particularly in countering China’s rising global influence.
“We must not lose sight of our shared priorities,” she wrote. “If the U.S. is serious about curbing China’s expansion, then it cannot afford to alienate a key partner like India.”
India, for its part, has rejected the tariffs, labeling them counterproductive and asserting its sovereign right to manage its energy imports based on national interests.
The latest developments signal growing diplomatic strain between the two democracies, even as both sides acknowledge the long-term strategic importance of their alliance. Whether diplomatic efforts can overcome current disagreements remains to be seen.
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