President Donald Trump announced Monday he would "substantially" raise tariffs on goods imported from India, citing the country's continued purchases of Russian oil and alleging it is reselling that oil for profit despite the ongoing war in Ukraine. The remarks, made on Truth Social, are the latest in a series of escalating trade threats aimed at one of America's key strategic partners.
"India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits," Trump wrote. "They don't care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine. Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA."
Trump did not provide specifics on the scale or timeline of the tariff increase. Last week, the administration announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports but hinted at additional, unspecified penalties.
India's trade ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. However, two Indian government sources told Reuters over the weekend that India would continue purchasing oil from Russia despite Trump's threats. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted the geopolitical and economic importance of energy security.
Trump's comments echo criticism voiced by senior aide Stephen Miller, who over the weekend accused India of financing Russia's military campaign. The Trump administration has consistently used tariffs as leverage in broader geopolitical conflicts, including targeting Chinese and European goods in recent months.
