As President Trump ramps up punitive tariffs on India—hiking duties on Russian oil imports to a hefty 50%—US-India ties have plunged to a new low. The additional 25% levy, effective since August 27, surprised many who had seen a trade deal on the horizon earlier this year.
Just weeks ago, Mr. Trump was hinting at an imminent agreement, fueling hopes in New Delhi. But those prospects evaporated under a barrage of statements and accusations from Washington, where the administration now blames India for "profiteering" from Russian oil and even links New Delhi’s energy choices to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Observers warn this strategy may backfire. By penalizing one of the world’s fastest-growing markets with steep duties, the US risks isolating itself and nudging India toward alternative partners. The logic tying India’s energy imports to geopolitical fallout strikes many as outlandish.
For global citizens—from entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts to activists and digital nomads—this unfolding spat is more than a headline. It underscores how volatile relations between two major democracies can reshape markets, investment plans, and the global energy landscape.
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Trump's strategy against India is bound to fail, deal or no deal
cgtn.com
