A recent statement by Donald Trump, the President of the world’s most powerful country, has created a stir in the corridors of India. Addressing a public meeting on Monday, Trump clearly said that if India did not support America on the issue of ‘Russian oil’, he would have no hesitation in increasing the import duty (tariff) on Indian goods.
This warning of Trump has come at a time when the trade relations between India and America are at a critical juncture. This news is not only a matter of concern for diplomats, but is also an alarm bell for Indian exporters who depend on the US market.
‘Modi is a good man, but it is important to please me’
In his familiar outspoken style, Trump also mentioned his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said, “They (India) actually wanted to make me happy. Prime Minister Modi is a very good man, he is really a wonderful person. He knew very well that I was not happy with some of his decisions and it was important for him to make me happy.” However, Trump also made it clear that personal friendship has its place and business interests have their place. He said in a stern tone that if America’s conditions were ignored, they could very soon impose heavy tariffs on Indian products.
Russian oil: the real reason for tension between India and America
The root of this entire controversy is the cheap crude oil being purchased by India from Russia. Since the Ukraine war, America has been continuously pressurizing India to reduce or stop oil trade with Russia. The Trump government believes that this step by India reduces the impact of American sanctions. Earlier in August 2025, America had doubled the import duty on India to 50%, the main reason behind which was said to be the oil trade with Russia. Now Trump is once again scratching the same old wound and trying to force India to change its foreign policy.
Will economic pressure increase on India?
If Trump turns his warning into reality, it could have a deep impact on the Indian economy. America is India’s largest trading partner. Indian IT services, clothes, gems and medicines are sent to America in large quantities. If tariffs are increased on these, these products will become expensive in the American market, which may reduce their demand. Under Trump’s ‘America First’ policy, he has already used tariffs as a weapon against many countries. Now it remains to be seen how India balances its energy needs and American friendship.
What will be India’s next move at the diplomacy table?
This statement of Trump has posed a big challenge to the Indian government. On one hand there is a need for decades old friendship and cheap energy with Russia, on the other hand there is a huge market like America and strategic partnership. Prime Minister Modi and his team will now have to find a formula for Trump’s ‘happiness’ that will safeguard India’s national interests and prevent a trade war with America. At present, the eyes of the whole world are on New Delhi’s next step because Trump’s attitude has made it clear that he is in no mood to compromise.