Thu Jan 22 03:46:23 UTC 2026: # Trump Tariffs Force India to Curb Russian Oil Imports, U.S. Claims

The Story:

According to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, India has significantly reduced, if not ceased, its purchase of Russian oil following the imposition of a 25% tariff by U.S. President Donald Trump. This tariff, along with a broader 50% tariff on Indian goods, was reportedly implemented in response to India’s increased oil imports from Russia after the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Bessent also criticized Europe for continuing to purchase Russian oil, thereby “financing the war against themselves.” India had previously defended its energy policy as guided by its own national interest, deeming the U.S. action “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Key Points:

  • U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claims India has “stopped” buying Russian oil due to President Trump’s 25% tariff.
  • Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on India, including 25% specifically for Russian oil purchases.
  • Senator Lindsey Graham has proposed a 500% tariff on secondary purchase and reselling of Russian oil.
  • India previously described the U.S. tariffs as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.”
  • CREA reports India fell to third place among buyers of Russian fossil fuels in December after Reliance Industries and state-owned refiners sharply cut crude oil imports.
  • Europe is accused of continuing to buy Russian oil, funding the war in Ukraine.

Key Takeaways:

  • The U.S. is actively using tariffs as a tool to pressure countries to reduce their reliance on Russian energy.
  • India’s energy policy is under increasing scrutiny and pressure from the U.S. despite claiming national interest as a guiding principle.
  • The U.S. is pursuing multiple avenues, including Congressional legislation, to further penalize the purchase of Russian oil.
  • There is a clear divergence in approach between the U.S. and Europe regarding Russian oil, with the U.S. taking a significantly more aggressive stance.
  • India’s reduction in Russian oil imports, as claimed by the U.S., demonstrates the potential effectiveness of tariffs as a coercive economic tool.

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