Russian Oil Imports Only Reason for Donald Trump’s Tariff on India? Shocking Reports Say No! What You Need to Know

Just a few weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told US President Donald Trump that the U.S. was not involved in any India-Pakistan mediation or trade deal discussions during Operation Sindoor, Trump surprised India by announcing a 25% tariff on its imports. According to a New York Times report on Saturday, he also imposed an additional 25% tariff on India for buying Russian oil, bringing the total to 50%.

The report said PM Modi had explained to Trump that the ceasefire between India and Pakistan was settled directly between the two countries and that the U.S. had no role. Trump, however, claimed he had used trade as leverage to end the fighting, which India denies.

Tariffs on India a Result of Donald Trump’s Frustration?

The New York Times reported that, frustrated by trade negotiations, Trump tried to contact Modi several times, according to two anonymous sources. The sources said Modi did not respond. However, the White House ruled out the reports that Trump had reached out.

Trump first imposed the 25% tariff on India in July, followed by the secondary 25% tariff, which took effect on August 27. Reportedly, India PM Modi and US President Donald Trump had talked for 35 minutes on a call in June.

India called the U.S. tariffs “extremely unfortunate.” An MEA spokesperson said India’s oil imports from Russia were based on market needs and aimed at ensuring energy security for 1.4 billion people. The statement added that the U.S. actions were “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” and India will safeguard its national interests.

India Said it Won’t Accept Third-Party Mediation

On June 18, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that PM Modi had told Trump there was no discussion about a trade deal or U.S. mediation at any point during the events. The ceasefire between India and Pakistan was arranged directly through the existing military channels, initiated by Pakistan, and India will never accept mediation on such matters.

Misri added that Trump listened carefully, expressed support for India’s fight against terrorism, and discussed other issues like the Israel-Iran conflict. Both leaders agreed that direct dialogue was essential for peace in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and planned to make future efforts to meet.

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