Jaishankar hits back at Trump on tariffs, envoy in Moscow asserts India will choose best oil offers

National News: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar strongly criticized US President Donald Trump’s approach on tariffs. He said no past American president has managed foreign policy so publicly. Calling Trump’s methods a “major shift,” he added that imposing tariffs on non-trade issues was unusual and unprecedented.

India Targeted While Others Spared

Jaishankar highlighted that the US imposed a 50% tariff on Indian imports after New Delhi continued oil purchases from Russia. He highlighted the selective approach of the decision, noting that China, the largest buyer of Russian crude, and European nations, the biggest importers of LNG, were not subjected to similar restrictions.

Europe Does More Business with Russia

Highlighting the West’s double standards, Jaishankar noted that Europe’s trade with Russia far exceeds that of India. “If people claim India is funding the war, what about Europe? Their trade is far bigger. Isn’t that also adding money to Russia’s economy?” he questioned.

“Don’t Buy If You Don’t Like”

On being asked if India profits from Russian crude, Jaishankar gave a clear reply: “If you don’t want to buy oil or refined products from India, then don’t buy them. No one forces you. Europe buys, America buys—if you dislike it, simply don’t purchase it.”

India Will Choose the Best Deal

India’s Ambassador to Moscow, Vinay Kumar, supported Jaishankar’s position and stated that India would keep purchasing oil from sources offering the most favorable deals. He criticized the US decision to double tariffs on Indian imports, calling it unfair, unreasonable, and against the spirit of free trade.

Energy Policy Driven by National Interest

Kumar stressed that India’s energy policy is shaped by the need for a reliable supply for its people, not by external political pressure. He assured that the government would keep protecting national interests in all circumstances.

India’s Stand on China

On China, Jaishankar clarified that India’s relations with Beijing and Washington are separate issues. He explained that tensions with China have been building since late 2024 and should not be confused with India-US matters. Each partnership, he said, has its own timeline and challenges.