India hits back at Trump's threat over Russian oil purchases

India slammed Donald Trump’s tariff threats over Russian oil imports, sparking rare unity between political rivals and fueling a growing trade rift with Washington.

India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and opposition Congress party united on Tuesday to denounce U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to increase tariffs on Indian goods in response to its continued oil purchases from Russia. 

Trump had already announced 25% tariffs on Indian imports in July.

U.S. officials have cited broader geopolitical concerns as obstacles to finalizing a U.S.-India trade agreement. Indian lawmaker Manish Tewari criticized Trump’s remarks as insulting to national dignity, while BJP leader Baijayant Jay Panda quoted Henry Kissinger, warning of the dangers of aligning with U.S. interests.

India's Foreign Ministry issued a strong response, "It is revealing that the very nations criticising India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia," it said in a statement issued late on Monday.

It pointed out that both the U.S. and European Union continue trade relations with Moscow, despite condemning India’s stance. Citing trade figures, the ministry highlighted €67.5 billion in EU-Russia trade in 2024 and U.S. imports of Russian uranium, palladium, and chemicals.

India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar are expected to visit Russia in the coming weeks, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two nations. 

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