Trump: Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil a “Big Deal”

US President Donald Trump has described his administration’s decision to impose tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil as a significant and difficult move. In an interview with Fox and Friends, Trump said: “Look, India was their biggest customer. I put a 50 percent tariff on India because they’re buying oil from Russia. That’s not an easy thing to do. That’s a big deal, and it causes a rift with India.”

He acknowledged the strain this created in bilateral relations but maintained it was necessary to put pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump emphasized that while the Russia-Ukraine conflict was primarily “a European problem,” his administration had already taken strong measures. He also repeated his claim of resolving multiple global conflicts during his second term, including tensions between Pakistan and India, and protracted crises in Africa.

India, however, has defended its continued purchase of Russian crude, arguing that its energy policy is guided by national interest and affordability. With a growing population of over 1.4 billion, India remains one of the world’s largest energy consumers.

Trump’s nominee for US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, recently underscored Washington’s goal of encouraging India to shift toward American oil imports. He said India’s expanding middle-class market, larger than that of the US, represents enormous opportunities for American exporters. Meanwhile, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested that progress toward a trade deal hinges on New Delhi reducing dependence on Russian energy.

The developments highlight rising friction in US-India ties, even as both sides stress long-term cooperation. Trump’s remarks reveal the delicate balancing act of punishing Russia while maintaining strategic partnerships, particularly with India, a key US ally in Asia.