Trump Imposes Additional Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil Purchases

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday to impose additional tariffs of 25% on India in retaliation for that country's purchase of Russian oil, bringing the total levy on Indian imports to 50%. According to the text released by the White House, the new tax will take effect in 21 days on August 27. Previously, the Trump administration had already imposed a 25% tariff on imports from India as part of efforts to reduce the bilateral trade deficit. President Trump, frustrated by Russian President Vladimir Putin's continued military actions in Ukraine, announced on Monday that he would increase tariffs on India due to its significant procurement of Russian oil. He expressed concern over the humanitarian impact of the conflict, stating, "They don't care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by Russian war machinery" on his Truth Social platform. India, the third-largest crude oil importer in the world, has taken a neutral and pragmatic stance regarding the Ukraine war, significantly increasing its imports from Russia. In fact, India has raised its intake of Russian oil from less than 2% to over a third, effectively making Moscow its primary supplier, while capitalizing on the discounts offered by the Kremlin. In response to growing pressure from the United States, the Indian government has defended its decision to import Russian oil, framing it as a matter of national interest and a move that contributes to global energy stability. Last Tuesday, President Trump issued a ten-day ultimatum to the Kremlin to declare a truce in Ukraine, with the deadline expiring this coming Friday. If the Kremlin fails to respond, Trump indicated that he could announce further sanctions against Russia, potentially escalating the already tense geopolitical situation. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2