India Slashes Russian Oil Imports Amid US Tariff Pressure

US Senator Lindsey Graham highlights India's significant reduction in Russian oil purchases following US tariffs. The pressure strategy aims to weaken Russia's economy and hasten peace talks concerning the Ukraine conflict. A trade agreement between India and the US involves reduced tariffs and increased US product purchases.

India has significantly reduced its imports of Russian oil, according to US Senator Lindsey Graham, in light of tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump. Graham calls this a successful example of economic pressure influencing international trade behavior.

In August 2025, the United States instituted a 25 percent tariff, along with an additional punitive duty, on India's imports of Russian crude oil and military equipment, aiming to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin amid ongoing aggression against Ukraine. The hope is that targeting Putin's oil customers will weaken his war efforts, Graham expressed via social media.

Trump announced that after discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a trade deal was reached, lowering US tariffs on Indian goods due to India's commitment to cease Russian oil purchases and invest substantially in US products. Graham views India's actions as a model for other nations and believes these efforts push toward ending the Ukrainian conflict.

(With inputs from agencies.)