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India Calls Trump’s 50% Tariffs ‘Unfair’ as Move Targets Russia’s Oil Income and Threatens Key Export Sectors
Donald Trump says his new tariffs on India have hit Russia’s economy hard. The US President has raised duties on Indian goods to 50% because India continues to buy oil from Russia.
The first 25% tariff was announced on July 30. Another 25% was added on August 7. Trump says this move will cut Russia’s earnings from oil, its biggest export. He also called India one of Russia’s largest oil buyers.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said Russia’s economy is “not doing well” and is “very well disturbed” by these tariffs. He added that Russia has huge land and potential, but is struggling under global pressure.
Tariffs and Their Impact on India
The Trump tariffs will take effect on August 27, 2025. They will hit Indian exports of textiles, gems, jewelry, auto parts, and seafood. Electronics and pharmaceuticals are not affected.
India has strongly opposed the move, calling it “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” Officials say the country’s energy imports depend on market needs and national security. The foreign ministry said it will take all steps to protect India’s interests.
Trump’s strategy is to put indirect pressure on Russia by targeting its major trading partners. Russia supplies about 35% of India’s oil. Experts say reducing this trade could limit Moscow’s income and push it toward peace talks over Ukraine.
The tariffs may also create problems for India’s economy. Some industries could lose big US markets. This might lead to job cuts and supply issues in export-focused sectors.
Political Tensions and Upcoming Talks
The decision also changes the political mood. Relations between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi could become tense. Some analysts believe India might move closer to Russia and China if trade tensions grow with the US.
Trump will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska on August 15. This will be Putin’s first visit to the US since 2015. Trump hopes the talks will be “constructive” and could lead to a meeting between Putin and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump states that placing tariffs on a country that buys so much Russian oil is a “big blow” to Moscow. Whether it changes Russia’s course will be watched closely in the coming weeks.