Thu Jul 31 23:13:58 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article, focusing on the “View From India” perspective:
**Summary:**
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has expressed Washington’s frustration with India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, stating it helps fund Moscow’s war efforts in Ukraine. This point of contention follows President Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on all goods from India and a penalty for buying Russian military equipment and energy, seen as a pressure tactic to sway India towards more favorable trade deals with the US. India has responded by saying it will take necessary steps to safeguard national interests.
**News Article:**
**India Faces US Pressure Over Russian Oil Amid New Tariffs**
**New Delhi/Washington – August 1, 2025** — India is facing increased pressure from the United States over its continued procurement of Russian oil, a move Washington believes is indirectly funding the war in Ukraine. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, publicly acknowledged the “irritation” caused by India’s energy purchases in an interview with Fox Radio, just a day after President Trump announced a sweeping 25% tariff on all goods imported from India, and an additional penalty for the purchase of Russian crude oil and military equipment..
Rubio admitted that India is a “strategic partner” and has “huge energy needs” which necessitates it buying oil from where it can access it, including Russia who sells it cheap due to sanctions. However, he also stated that the continued buying of oil from Russia “is helping to sustain the Russian war effort”.
President Trump’s unexpected tariff announcement is widely interpreted as a tactic to leverage India into accepting trade agreements more favorable to the US, similar to recent deals struck with Japan, the UK, and the European Union. The Hindu understands that Indian officials were surprised by the sudden increase in tariffs.
The move comes at a delicate time for India, which is balancing its energy security needs with its relationship with Western nations. New Delhi has consistently maintained that its energy policy is driven by national interest and affordability.
In a statement released early this morning, the Indian government stated it is examining the implications of the tariffs and will take “all necessary steps to safeguard and promote national interest”. It remains to be seen how India will navigate this complex situation, caught between its strategic partnership with the US and its dependence on affordable energy sources. The situation is being closely watched across the Indian business and diplomatic community.
First Piper 