Washington: US President Donald Trump has stepped back, for now, from imposing heavy tariffs on India over its purchases of Russian oil, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. The administration will hold off on the measures for 60 days to assess their potential impact on the American and global economies, giving New Delhi temporary relief.
Rubio explained that Washington is weighing the wider consequences of its approach. Sanctioning Russia is one step, but extending tariffs to countries that buy Russian crude could send shockwaves through global markets. Rather than act immediately, Trump has opted for a 60-day window to study how such measures would affect the world economy and the United States itself.
The pause, however, does not amount to a permanent reprieve. Rubio indicated that the administration could revisit the issue once the 60 days end, leaving India’s exposure to tariffs unresolved. For now, the relief is limited to a deferral of the threatened duties.
India remains among the largest buyers of Russian oil, though Rubio noted that it does not depend on Moscow alone. New Delhi has already broadened its energy sourcing by purchasing crude from other countries. Even so, Russia continues to account for a substantial share of India’s imports, and Rubio acknowledged that this cannot be changed overnight.
Rubio’s remarks suggest Washington recognizes the practical difficulties involved. An abrupt halt to Russian supplies would force India to buy far more from other producers, requiring new supply routes and potentially driving up prices and import costs. The comments indicate the US understands that demanding an immediate end to India’s Russian oil purchases is not a simple ask.