Trump Freezes Trade Talks with India Over Russian Oil Tariffs, Modi Vows to Protect Farmers
(OT Webdesk)In a dramatic escalation of trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has suspended all negotiations with India following a steep 50% tariff hike on Indian imports.
The move, announced during a White House event, is a direct response to India’s continued oil trade with Russia, which Washington claims indirectly funds Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
The latest executive order adds a fresh 25% tariff to an existing 25%, with the full impact set to take effect on August 27.
The U.S. administration accused India of reselling Russian oil for profit, thereby sustaining Russia’s economy and military aggression.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded with a defiant statement, asserting that India will not compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy workers.
“India is ready to pay the price,” Modi declared, signalling no change in energy policy despite mounting pressure.
Opposition leaders, including Shashi Tharoor, criticised the U.S. stance and urged India to respond firmly.
Analysts warn the standoff could reshape India-U.S. relations, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, where both nations have sought strategic alignment.
High-level discussions are expected in New Delhi to assess the economic fallout and explore countermeasures, as the global trade landscape grows increasingly complex.
