India has labeled Donald Trump’s warning of increased tariffs due to its Russian oil imports as “unjustified and unreasonable.” Trump, on Truth Social, criticized India for its indifference to the Ukraine conflict, threatening tariff hikes. India, a major Russian oil buyer, has provided a vital market for Russia post-European trade cuts following the 2022 Ukraine invasion. While Trump hasn’t detailed the new tariff, he recently imposed a 25% levy on India. India’s foreign ministry, represented by Randhir Jaiswal, argued the US once encouraged these imports to stabilize energy markets. The ministry criticized the US for trading with Russia despite sanctions, confirming India’s commitment to protecting its interests and deeming the tariff move unfair. Previously calling India a “friend,” Trump now criticizes India’s Russian oil trade for yielding profits. Reports suggest India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi hasn’t stopped Russian oil purchases, with Ajay Srivastava from GTRI deeming Trump’s claims misleading. Srivastava clarifies that India aimed to stabilize oil markets post-sanctions and that its refineries operate independently. US-Russia relations, previously warmer under Trump, have cooled, with Trump recently questioning Putin’s peace intentions and warning of tariffs if no Ukraine ceasefire occurs by August 8. US envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit Russia, meeting with Putin. Additional reporting by Soutik Biswas.
