Crash. Claim. Controversy (8)

Trump Warns of More Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil, Delhi Pushes Back, Citing Strategic Autonomy and US Double Standards

Amid growing scrutiny of India’s energy ties with Russia, US President Donald Trump clarified on Tuesday that he had never mentioned a specific rate for potential tariffs on countries trading with Moscow. “I never said a percentage, but we’ll be doing quite a bit of that,” Trump said at a press conference, responding to a question on whether he still planned to impose 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian energy.

Even as Trump took a step back from a previous warning to impose secondary tariffs against nations such as India and China, he reaffirmed that action was imminent in the ‘fairly short period of time.’

India Comes Under Heat for Russian Oil Imports

Only days ago, on Tuesday, Trump had denounced India as the ‘largest purchaser of energy’ from Russia. He slapped a 25% duty on Indian imports and threatened further penalties, though no additional information was given. His tirade followed a prior ultimatum where he had given Russia 50 days to sign a peace agreement with Ukraine, or else 100% tariffs, coupled with secondary sanctions against its trading partners.

India has stubbornly insisted that its Russian oil imports are economic and strategic necessities. India stood firm after the 25% tariffs were imposed, highlighting that traditional energy providers had pivoted to Europe after the Ukraine conflict. India also pointed out that the US had initially supported Indian imports of Russian energy to shore up world energy markets.

US Trade with Russia Sparks Questions

India has also pointed to the United States’ continued imports from Russia, particularly uranium hexafluoride, fertilizers, and chemicals, to highlight the perceived double standards. When asked about this during the press conference, Trump claimed ignorance. “I don’t know anything about it. I’d have to check,” he said.

Despite pressure from Washington, India and Russia have reaffirmed their defense cooperation. Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar met Russian Deputy Defence Minister Colonel-General Alexander Fomin in Moscow this week to reiterate bilateral cooperation. A Russian Defence Ministry statement characterized the relationship as a ‘particularly privileged strategic partnership.’

What’s Next?

As Trump threatened possible action but provided little detail, attention has turned to a Wednesday US-Russia meeting, where additional information on secondary sanctions might be forthcoming. In addition, US special envoy Steve Witkoff will reportedly visit Russia for top-level talks.

India, which imported over $50 billion of Russian oil in 2024-25, is a central player in Moscow's energy strategy. Whether Trump acts on his wider threats may determine India-US relations and the course of global energy diplomacy.