Trump Cites Existing 50% Duties as Precedent for “Quick” New Hikes Against Indian Goods
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to New Delhi on Monday, stating that the United States could further increase existing tariffs on Indian imports if India does not cooperate on the “Russian oil issue.”
The remarks come at a time when trade tensions between the two nations are already high, following the Trump administration’s decision in August 2025 to double tariffs on Indian goods to 50%.
“Modi is a Good Guy, but I am Not Happy”
During a briefing primarily focused on the recent capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, Trump addressed the ongoing friction with India. In an audio recording of the address, the President mentioned his relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“India wanted to make me happy. Modi is a very good guy and he knew I was not happy. And it was important to make me happy. We can raise tariffs on them very quickly,” Trump told reporters.
The President explicitly linked the potential for new trade penalties to India’s continued purchase of Russian crude, a practice the U.S. has long opposed as it allegedly helps fund Russia’s offensive in Ukraine.
The Oil Conflict: A History of Denials
This is not the first time Trump has claimed movement on this front. In October 2025, the President asserted that PM Modi had “assured” him that India would stop buying Russian oil. However, the Indian government quickly denied that any such commitment or conversation had taken place.
- India’s Stand: New Delhi has consistently maintained that its energy policies are driven by market offers and the essential needs of the Indian consumer.
- U.S. Allegations: Trump administration officials have accused India of “profiteering” and “making billions” by reselling refined Russian oil to global markets.
Diplomatic Strain Amid “Special Relationship”
Despite the “special relationship” and mutual expressions of friendship often cited by both leaders, the economic pressure from Washington continues to mount. The initial 50% tariff hike in late 2025 was widely seen as a tactical move by Trump to squeeze Moscow’s revenue streams by forcing its largest customers to look elsewhere.
With trade negotiations currently ongoing, this latest threat of a “quick” tariff hike could potentially derail diplomatic progress and add significant strain to the Indo-U.S. partnership.