**Tensions rise between the US and India as Trump criticizes India's oil imports from Russia, claiming they profit from the conflict.**
**Trump's Tariff Threats: India Faces Potential Penalties Over Russian Oil Purchases**
**Trump's Tariff Threats: India Faces Potential Penalties Over Russian Oil Purchases**
**Former President warns of “substantial” tariffs as India continues to buy oil from Russia amid ongoing war in Ukraine.**
In a recent development, former US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose "substantial" tariffs on India due to its continued purchase of oil from Russia, drawing criticism from Indian officials. This ultimatum was shared on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, where he expressed concern over India's disregard for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
India has emerged as one of the largest importers of Russian oil, particularly after European nations reduced their economic engagement with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Although Trump did not disclose specific tariff rates, he had previously announced a significant 25% tariff on India, prompting a stern response from the Indian government.
Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for India’s foreign ministry, labeled Trump's threats as "unjustified and unreasonable," pointing out that the US had encouraged Indian imports of Russian gas at the onset of the war. Jaiswal emphasized that India had turned to Russia for oil due to the diversion of traditional suppliers to Europe amidst unfolding geopolitical tensions.
India's trade with Russia remains a point of contention, especially as the US has maintained its own economic exchanges with Russia, amounting to approximately $3.5 billion last year, despite the sanctions imposed. India reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its economic interests in the face of increasing external pressures.
Despite Trump's prior remarks that classified India as a "friend" and cautioned against high tariffs on US goods, his latest comments reflect a critical stance on India's lucrative oil dealings with Russia. He alleged that India profits from reselling Russian oil on the open market.
Ajay Srivastava, a trade expert from India, contested Trump's assertions, stating that India's actions in the oil market have been transparent and intended to stabilize global energy prices disrupted by sanctions. He explained that Indian oil refineries operate autonomously, guided by economic considerations rather than government directives.
As international relations fluctuated, Trump's rhetoric appeared to harden against both Russia and India, raising questions about the future of US-India ties, particularly in the realm of trade and oil imports. While elevating tariffs and taking a tough line on oil exports from Russia, Trump also emphasizes the need for a ceasefire in Ukraine, threatening severe penalties for non-compliance.
With US envoy Steve Witkoff scheduled to visit Moscow shortly, the diplomatic landscape remains intricate and fraught with challenges, reflecting the complexities of global trade amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
India has emerged as one of the largest importers of Russian oil, particularly after European nations reduced their economic engagement with Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. Although Trump did not disclose specific tariff rates, he had previously announced a significant 25% tariff on India, prompting a stern response from the Indian government.
Randhir Jaiswal, a spokesperson for India’s foreign ministry, labeled Trump's threats as "unjustified and unreasonable," pointing out that the US had encouraged Indian imports of Russian gas at the onset of the war. Jaiswal emphasized that India had turned to Russia for oil due to the diversion of traditional suppliers to Europe amidst unfolding geopolitical tensions.
India's trade with Russia remains a point of contention, especially as the US has maintained its own economic exchanges with Russia, amounting to approximately $3.5 billion last year, despite the sanctions imposed. India reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its economic interests in the face of increasing external pressures.
Despite Trump's prior remarks that classified India as a "friend" and cautioned against high tariffs on US goods, his latest comments reflect a critical stance on India's lucrative oil dealings with Russia. He alleged that India profits from reselling Russian oil on the open market.
Ajay Srivastava, a trade expert from India, contested Trump's assertions, stating that India's actions in the oil market have been transparent and intended to stabilize global energy prices disrupted by sanctions. He explained that Indian oil refineries operate autonomously, guided by economic considerations rather than government directives.
As international relations fluctuated, Trump's rhetoric appeared to harden against both Russia and India, raising questions about the future of US-India ties, particularly in the realm of trade and oil imports. While elevating tariffs and taking a tough line on oil exports from Russia, Trump also emphasizes the need for a ceasefire in Ukraine, threatening severe penalties for non-compliance.
With US envoy Steve Witkoff scheduled to visit Moscow shortly, the diplomatic landscape remains intricate and fraught with challenges, reflecting the complexities of global trade amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.
