Washington: US President Donald Trump has signaled a potential escalation in trade tensions with India, announcing plans to significantly raise tariffs within the next 24 hours. Trump, who has already imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, accused New Delhi of purchasing large quantities of oil from Russia, indirectly aiding the ongoing Ukraine war.
While describing India as a friendly nation, Trump criticized its trade practices, stating that India benefits far more from trade with the United States than vice versa. He said this imbalance prompted the initial 25% tariff and warned of further hikes soon.
Just in: US President Donald Trump says he is going to raise tariffs on India "very substantially over the next 24 hours because they're buying Russian oil. They're fueling the war machine."pic.twitter.com/RWrEl9lPST
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 5, 2025
India has rejected the criticism, asserting its right to select trade partners based on national interests. New Delhi pointed out that it imports key components for the nuclear industry, electric vehicles, and fertilizers from the US and questioned Washington’s approach to trade relations.
Russia also condemned Trump’s remarks, accusing the US of deliberately increasing pressure on India. Moscow emphasized that India faces no restrictions in purchasing Russian oil. Analysts warn that if additional tariffs are imposed, it could significantly damage bilateral trade relations. Trump’s final decision on the tariff hike is expected within the next 24 hours.