Washington/New Delhi – The Democratic members of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee have strongly criticized President Donald Trump for imposing steep tariffs on India, calling it an “unfair” move that threatens to damage the US-India partnership.
On August 6, Trump announced a 50% tariff on India, including a 25% penalty on imports of Russian crude oil, which officially came into effect on August 27. While India bore the harshest blow, other major importers such as China and Turkey faced lighter tariffs of 30% and 15% respectively.
In a post on X, the Democrats argued that Trump’s decision was politically motivated rather than linked to the Ukraine war, as the administration has claimed. “Instead of penalizing China or others buying far more Russian oil, Trump is singling out India — hurting both Americans and sabotaging the US-India relationship,” the statement read.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reacted sharply, describing the tariffs as “extremely unfortunate” and “unjustified.” A spokesperson said, “India’s energy imports are guided by market realities and the need to ensure energy security for 1.4 billion people. We will take all necessary steps to safeguard our national interests.”
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who recently returned from a visit to Moscow, said New Delhi was “deeply perplexed” by Washington’s move. He stressed that India’s trade decisions are based purely on commercial grounds and national benefit. Indian envoy to Russia, Vinay Kumar, also underlined that the country would continue to purchase oil where it secures the best deal.
The Democrats amplified their criticism by citing a New York Times report that said the “secondary tariffs” were directed almost exclusively at India. “It’s almost like this is not about Ukraine at all,” they remarked.
Meanwhile, US Vice President J.D. Vance defended the administration’s approach, saying Trump’s “aggressive economic leverage” — including tariffs on India — was aimed at forcing Russia to halt its bombardment of Ukraine.
Rejecting US claims that Indian crude purchases are financing Moscow’s war, Jaishankar countered sharply: “It’s ironic for a pro-business American administration to accuse others of doing business. If anyone has a problem with Indian oil or refined products, don’t buy it. Nobody is forcing you. Yet, both Europe and America continue to purchase.”
This tariff dispute marks a new flashpoint in the already complex trade and geopolitical relationship between Washington and New Delhi, raising concerns about its potential impact on the broader strategic partnership.
