WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to further increase trade tariffs on India, accusing New Delhi of profiting from the ongoing war in Ukraine by importing and reselling Russian oil.
In a statement shared on social media, Trump said: “India is not only buying massive quantities of Russian oil but is also making a profit from it. They don’t seem to care how many people are dying in Ukraine at the hands of Russian forces. That’s why I’m increasing the tariffs on India.”
Trump’s remarks follow similar allegations made by Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff during Trump’s tenure. In an interview on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Miller said: “President Trump made it very clear that it is unacceptable for India to be buying Russian oil and indirectly funding the war in Ukraine. People will be shocked to know that India is now almost on par with China in terms of Russian oil imports.
Just days ago, Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports due to India’s continued purchase of Russian arms and energy. He also warned that countries importing oil from Russia could face tariffs of up to 100%.
In response, India has reportedly pulled back from its interest in acquiring Fifth Generation F-35 stealth fighter jets from the US, raising questions over the future of Indo-U.S. defense cooperation.
The developments come amid unresolved trade differences between the two countries. A recent U.S. official claimed that India’s energy deals with Russia are not just economic but have strategic implications, potentially undermining Western efforts to isolate Moscow.
