Mon Jan 05 05:15:52 UTC 2026: News Article:

Trump Threatens Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil Imports

Washington D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to India, stating that Washington could impose tariffs on New Delhi if it continues to import Russian oil. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of his displeasure regarding India’s energy trade with Russia and was seeking to “make him happy.”

Trump asserted that India has already “substantially reduced” its oil purchases from Russia. “We could raise tariffs on India if they don’t help on the Russian oil issue,” Trump stated.

These remarks come amid growing scrutiny in Washington over India’s energy trade with Russia, despite India defending its oil purchases as vital for its domestic energy security. Trump’s comments follow recent telephonic conversations with PM Modi where both leaders affirmed the importance of maintaining momentum in bilateral trade ties, even amidst ongoing tariff disputes.

India and the United States have been engaged in trade negotiations aimed at resolving long-standing differences. Talks earlier this year were disrupted by U.S. tariffs on Indian imports. The relationship has seen some positive signs recently, with the U.S. Embassy in India highlighting Trump’s previous praise for PM Modi.

Trump’s focus on oil coincides with renewed global attention on the commodity following US actions in Venezuela.

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