US President Donald Trump has taken a bold step by announcing an additional 25% tariff on India's purchases of Russian oil, effective 21 days from now. This brings the total tariff on imports from India to a staggering 50%, ranking among the highest imposed by the US.
In his executive order, Trump emphasized the ongoing threat posed by the Russian actions in Ukraine, indicating that India's continued oil imports from Russia are undermining US efforts to counteract this aggression. The White House asserted that these moves are necessary to protect national security and discourage other nations from providing support to Russia.
India, previously encouraged by the US to import Russian gas, criticized the tariff as "unjustified and unreasonable." The Indian government clarified that their oil imports were a response to the diversion of traditional supplies to Europe due to the conflict. India's foreign ministry had pointed out the hypocrisy of the US continuing to trade with Russia while imposing tariffs on its allies.
As tensions rise, India's commitment to prioritize its national interests remains clear, while the US seeks to navigate international trade complexities amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.
