New Delhi, October 20 (Udaipur Kiran): U.S. President Donald Trump has once again warned India of imposing new tariffs if it continues to import oil from Russia, intensifying his repeated pressure on New Delhi over its energy trade with Moscow.
Speaking to American media, President Trump claimed that he had spoken with the Indian Prime Minister, who had allegedly assured him that India would not purchase oil from Russia. However, India has strongly denied any such communication, stating that no such conversation took place.
When asked by reporters about India’s denial, Trump remarked,
“If they’re saying that, they will continue paying heavy tariffs. But I don’t think they said that. I spoke to the Prime Minister, and he told me they wouldn’t be doing Russian oil deals. That’s it.”
Pressed further by journalists on India’s clarification, Trump reiterated,
“I don’t know, but if they want to say that, they’ll keep paying heavy tariffs — and they don’t want that.”
His comments have triggered a stir in Indian diplomatic circles, especially as they come amid ongoing India-Russia energy cooperation and strengthening India-U.S. strategic ties.
Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Western nations have imposed economic sanctions on Moscow. However, India has maintained its independent energy policy, continuing to purchase discounted Russian crude oil to meet domestic needs. New Delhi has consistently defended its stance, asserting that its decisions are driven by national interest and energy security considerations, not geopolitical pressures.
Trump’s latest remarks have raised fresh questions about the future of India-U.S. relations, especially at a time when both nations are expanding cooperation in defence, technology, and trade. Experts believe such tariff threats could create an atmosphere of mistrust, even as strategic alignment between the two democracies deepens.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
