WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is dissatisfied with heightened US tariffs tied to India’s purchase of Russian oil, though he asserted their personal relationship remains solid.
Speaking at the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump noted India’s high tariff rates but acknowledged New Delhi has significantly reduced its Russian oil imports under US pressure. The tariffs, including a 50% total levy and an additional 25% linked to Russian oil purchases, are part of a broader US strategy discouraging energy trade with Moscow during the Ukraine conflict.
Trump warned higher tariffs could follow if India does not further curb these imports but emphasized his rapport with Modi, stating their relationship remains positive despite trade tensions. He noted that Modi understands the need to address US concerns while balancing India’s interests.
Trump also shared that Modi reached out regarding overdue Apache attack helicopters, announcing progress in delivery after years of delay on India’s order of 68 units.
Defending his tariff policy, Trump argued that the measures benefit the US economically, claiming over $650 billion in returns through trade adjustments. However, he reiterated his readiness to increase tariffs if India doesn’t align with US demands on Russian oil.
Meanwhile, India refuted claims of assurances made to halt Russian oil purchases and stressed no such agreements were reached. Despite elevated tariffs, India’s exports to the US surged last year, highlighting the complex trade dynamic.
Trump has tied Indian trade policies to broader geopolitical concerns over Russia’s war with Ukraine and positioned himself as a potential mediator in the conflict while pressuring India to limit its ties with Moscow.
