India's Oil Tariffs Debate: Trump and Modi's Clash Over Russian Imports

President Trump claims India will face hefty tariffs if it continues buying oil from Russia, despite Prime Minister Modi's assurance to halt imports. Trump reiterated this onboard Air Force One, emphasizing potential economic penalties. The US doubled tariffs on Indian goods, straining Washington-New Delhi relations.

During a recent press briefing aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump reiterated that India would incur massive tariffs should it persist in sourcing oil from Russia. This statement comes in light of what Trump described as assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi that New Delhi would curtail its Russian oil purchases. India's move to diversify its oil sourcing is part of its strategy to adapt to market conditions, following Trump's claim that Modi planned to stop importing Russian crude.

The US President expressed skepticism about India's commitment to halt Russian oil imports, stating his conversation with Modi contradicted India's public stance. Washington has accused India of financing Russia's war efforts through its crude purchases, a claim that Modi's government appears to challenge.

Tensions have escalated between the US and India after Trump enforced additional tariffs on Indian goods, citing India's Russian oil transactions. The Indian government described these tariffs as unfair and unreasonable amidst the ongoing geopolitical strife.

(With inputs from agencies.)