US Imposes New Tariffs on India, Trump Warns of More ‘Secondary Sanctions’

US President Donald Trump has escalated trade tensions with India by imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports. This new levy comes on top of a previous 25% tariff, bringing the total duty to 50% for many Indian goods. The move is a direct response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which the Trump administration claims undermines sanctions against Russia for its actions in Ukraine. The White House, in an executive order, stated that India’s “direct or indirect” importation of Russian oil poses a threat to U.S. national security.

India’s Response

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a strong rebuke, calling the U.S. action “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” The MEA reiterated that India’s oil imports are driven by market factors and are essential for ensuring the energy security of its 1.4 billion people. The statement highlighted that other countries are also engaging in similar trade practices but are not being singled out. India affirmed it will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests.

Trump’s Broader Warning

Beyond the specific tariffs on India, President Trump has also issued a broader warning of more “secondary sanctions” against other nations that continue to buy Russian oil. When asked why India was being targeted while countries like China also buy Russian oil, Trump hinted that similar actions against Beijing are under consideration. He stated, “You’re going to see so much secondary sanctions,” suggesting a wider campaign of economic pressure is on the horizon. This action marks a significant shift in U.S. policy, which previously had a more flexible approach to India’s energy trade with Russia, allowing it to purchase discounted oil as long as it remained under a price cap.

Also Read: Trump’s Tariff Threat: Is India’s Russian Oil Deal a Target?