Former US NSA John Bolton Slams Trump’s Tariff Policies, Dismisses India-Pakistan Ceasefire Peace Claims

Trump Tariffs on India: Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has sharply criticized President Donald Trump's tariff policy on India. Bolton called it an example of unfair and inconsistent behavior of Trump. He warned that such steps could have a negative impact on relations between Washington and New Delhi.

Bolton also said that Trump's claim of establishing peace between India and Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack is not correct. India has always clarified that this agreement was the result of direct talks between the Directors of Military Operations (DGMO) of the two countries.

Inconsistency Over Tariffs And Russian Purchases

Bolton said in an interview that Trump's decision to impose heavy tariffs on India reflects inconsistent behavior. He also pointed out that no such action was taken against big buyers like China, Turkey and Pakistan. He said, "I think there was a lot of concern in Washington that both the tariff issue and Trump's taking credit for bringing peace to India and Pakistan after the last terrorist attack in Kashmir was inappropriate."

Last month, the Trump administration announced a 25% retaliatory tariff on goods imported from India and an additional 25% duty on energy trade with Russia. Bolton said these measures are not part of normal trade negotiations but are a result of Trump's policies in response to Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

Strategic advice given to India

The former security advisor suggested India to adopt a long-term approach in US relations. Bolton said that Trump's term is only three-four years and during this time India should take decisions according to national interest. He said, "India should see Trump as a temporary factor, take decisions in accordance with its national interest and accept that his actions do not represent the broader American view." He also praised the calm and mature response of the Indian government. He said that avoiding public confrontation and adopting back-channel diplomacy was the most effective way.

Questions raised on Trump's strategy

Bolton said that Trump's policies are inconsistent not only towards India but also towards other close partners. This is only a dramatic display for domestic political gain. He believes that such steps have weakened America's credibility. Bolton asked India to take a long-term view and strengthen relations in the future while minimising the damage caused during Trump's tenure.