U.S. President Donald Trump has once again sparked international tension—this time with India—after threatening to significantly raise tariffs on Indian goods due to the country’s continued purchase of Russian oil. New Delhi was quick to respond, labeling the move “unjustified and unreasonable” and reaffirming its commitment to protecting national and economic interests.
In a post on social media Monday, Trump wrote:
“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits. They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine.”
He added that the U.S. would “substantially raise the Tariff paid by India” as a consequence.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a strong rebuttal, stating:
“India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security. The targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable.”
Despite mounting Western pressure, Indian officials have made it clear they will not stop buying Russian oil, citing long-standing ties with Moscow and the need to ensure affordable energy amid a volatile global market. From January to June this year, India imported about 1.75 million barrels per day of Russian crude — a slight increase from last year.
Trump’s threat comes as he also vowed to impose new sanctions on Russia and any countries continuing to purchase its energy exports, unless Moscow shows signs of ending its ongoing war in Ukraine. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no public indication of backing down.
Sources told Reuters that, in response to Trump’s comments, some Indian refiners briefly paused Russian oil purchases as discounts narrowed. Still, major refiners like Indian Oil Corp have shifted recent purchases to crude from the U.S., Canada, and the Middle East — totaling 7 million barrels, according to four trade sources.
India also pushed back against what it sees as Western hypocrisy, highlighting continued bilateral trade between the European Union and Russia despite criticism of India’s actions.
Adding to the strain, Indian officials are reportedly frustrated with Trump’s repeated claims that he personally brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan in May — a statement New Delhi has never confirmed.
Richard Rossow, an analyst at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said:
“India’s continued energy and defense ties with Russia create long-term friction, especially under an unpredictable administration where New Delhi struggles to anticipate the next move.”
This latest tariff threat deepens a growing trade rift between the two nations and casts uncertainty over future U.S.-India economic cooperation, especially with no clear roadmap for a trade agreement in sight.
