India’s Response to US Pressure on Russian Oil
• US President Trump imposed 25% penalty tariff on Indian goods for Russian oil imports.
• 25% reciprocal tariffs were announced on July 31 after a failed FTA.
• India has not taken overt action against the U.S. for its tariffs.
• Ministry of External Affairs criticized U.S. and EU for targeting India over Russian oil imports.
• Prime Minister Modi expressed readiness to pay a price to protect India’s interests.
• Trump announced a meeting with Russian President Putin on August 15.
• India may receive a rollback of Russian oil penalties if a deal is reached.
• Despite Western requests, India continued to purchase oil from Russia, saving about $13 billion by 2024 and $3.8 billion in 2025.