India Condemns Trump's Steep Tariffs Amid Rising Diplomatic Tensions

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla criticized US President Trump's tariffs on India due to its Russian oil imports. Congress leaders label the action as an 'economic burden,' urging withdrawal. The Ministry of External Affairs deemed the move unfair, signaling diplomatic strains amid significant economic repercussions for key Indian sectors.

In a move that has escalated diplomatic tensions, Congress MP Rajeev Shukla vociferously criticized US President Donald Trump for levying an additional 25 percent tariff on India, attributing this to India's purchase of Russian oil.

Joining in the condemnation, Congress MP Pramod Tiwari warned of the adverse economic impact, specifically highlighting the threat to Indian exports and calling for a retraction of the tariff. Reacting to the situation, Congress head Mallikarjun Kharge sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his handling of foreign relations, branding the situation as a 'foreign policy disaster.'

The Ministry of External Affairs deemed the United States' move 'unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,' with promises to take necessary actions to safeguard India's national interests. Meanwhile, an unnamed US Administration official juxtaposed the sizeable figures of India's oil import from Russia against the negligible US imports, dismissing accusations of an economic threat.

(With inputs from agencies.)