After imposing 25% tariffs on Indian imports, Trump criticizes India-Russia ties and highlights a new US-Pakistan oil deal amid strained India-US relations.
Trump’s Harsh Words on India and Russia
US President Donald Trump delivered a sharp rebuke to India and Russia, saying he “doesn’t care” about New Delhi’s dealings with Moscow. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump declared:
“They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care.”
Trump accused India of maintaining some of the highest tariffs in the world and criticized both India and Russia for their limited business ties with the US. He stated,
“We have done very little business with India, their tariffs are too high… Russia and the USA do almost no business together. Let’s keep it that way.”
Tariffs and Trade Tensions with India
This comes just a day after Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports, citing New Delhi’s extensive tariff barriers and trade deficit with the US.
Trump said,
“India is our friend, but we have done relatively little business with them because their tariffs are far too high and they have the most strenuous and obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers.”
The US President also criticized India’s longstanding defense purchases from Russia, calling India Russia’s largest buyer of energy alongside China. He emphasized that these purchases continue despite global calls to sanction Russia over its actions in Ukraine.
India’s Response: Studying Implications, Committed to Trade Talks
Following Trump’s tariff announcement and remarks, the Indian government responded cautiously. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry said it has “taken note” of the US actions and is “studying its implications.”
India reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing negotiations aimed at a “fair, balanced and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreement.” The government stressed the importance of protecting farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises).
The statement also highlighted India’s readiness to safeguard national interests in trade deals, referring to similar protections in the recent trade agreement with the UK.
Trump’s Warning to Russia’s Medvedev: “Watch Your Words”
In a direct warning to former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, Trump cautioned against escalating tensions. Medvedev had warned that Washington’s “ultimatum game” with Russia could lead to war. Trump tweeted,
“Tell Medvedev, the failed former President of Russia, to watch his words. He’s entering very dangerous territory.”
Trump’s sharp tone reflects frustration over the Ukraine conflict and Putin’s failure to negotiate peace within his previously proposed deadlines.
US-Pakistan Oil Deal: Adding Fuel to Regional Dynamics
Adding to the complex geopolitical backdrop, Trump announced a new energy partnership with Pakistan:
“We have just concluded a Deal with Pakistan to develop their massive oil reserves… We are in the process of choosing the Oil Company that will lead this partnership.”
This deal signals a strengthening of US-Pak ties at a time when India-Pakistan relations remain tense, especially following recent terror incidents.
What This Means for India-US Relations
- Trump’s tariffs and harsh rhetoric highlight increasing trade and diplomatic strains between the US and India.
- India’s growing ties with Russia on energy and defense continue to provoke US disapproval.
- New US-Pakistan cooperation in energy development adds a competitive edge to regional relations.
- India remains engaged in trade negotiations with the US, seeking a balanced agreement despite current tensions.
Summary: US President Donald Trump’s recent comments and tariff announcements signal rising trade and geopolitical friction with India, fueled by India’s ongoing relationship with Russia. Meanwhile, a new US-Pakistan oil deal adds complexity to South Asia’s strategic landscape.
Also Read : Trump Bypasses India, Strikes Oil Deal with Pakistan: A Strategic Warning Amid Trade Tensions
