Eight Hours In, Trump Threatens More After 50% Tariff on India

India US tariff dispute: US President Donald Trump has doubled down on India by not only imposing a 25% additional duty on imports but also threatening new sanctions for continuing to buy oil from Russia. After this, India's exports to the US will now come under a 50% tariff, which is likely to affect both common Indian businessmen and consumers. Trump did not stop here; he has even said that if needed, he can take even more stringent steps against India. 

This decision has come at a time when the world is already facing an energy crisis and economic instability due to the Russia-Ukraine war. According to the US administration, India's continued oil purchases from Russia are reducing the impact of global sanctions. When Trump was asked why only India is being targeted when China is also doing the same, he told reporters, 'It has been only eight hours; a lot more will happen in the future.'

Trump's open threat 

Trump made it clear that pressure will be put on more countries in the coming days and additional sanctions can be imposed. Along with this, he also hinted that action like India's is possible against China too.

India Slams Unfair US Tariff

The Indian government has strongly condemned this move. The Ministry of External Affairs said that this decision is 'unreasonable and against the basic principles of strategic partnership.' India clarified that buying oil from Russia is linked to its national energy security, price competitiveness, and the interests of 1.4 billion people.

India also reminded the US that its energy imports are based on market factors and not on any political pressure. India also said that it will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests.

Trump now has his eyes set on China

Meanwhile, Trump's statement has indicated that the tariffs imposed on India can be removed after a possible peace agreement in the Russia-Ukraine war, but a decision on this will be taken later. On the other hand, Trump's eyes are now on China, and he said that if needed to put pressure on Russia, additional tariffs can be imposed on China as well.

This new turn in India-US relations raises questions on mutual trust. It will be interesting to see in the coming days how India responds and what new moves are made in global diplomacy.