India Slams US Tariff Threat Over Russian Oil Trade

India has strongly rejected the recent tariff threats by US President Donald Trump, calling them “unjustified and unreasonable”, amid criticism over its continued oil trade with Russia.

India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of Russian crude, becoming a key market for Moscow after Europe drastically cut energy ties following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. While Trump accuses India of buying oil and reselling it at a profit, New Delhi insists its purchases are based on economic security and national interest.

“Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” India’s foreign ministry said.

Trump recently announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods and hinted at further penalties, criticizing India for profiting from Russian oil sales. He wrote on Truth Social:

“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian oil, they are then… selling it on the open market for big profits… I will be substantially raising the tariff paid by India to the USA.”

India hit back by pointing out the hypocrisy of the U.S. position, noting that the U.S. itself traded over $3.5 billion worth of goods with Russia in 2024, despite public sanctions.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not ordered refiners to halt Russian oil purchases, sources told Bloomberg that Indian refineries continue to operate based on long-term commercial contracts, with no immediate change in policy.