Lagatar24 Desk
Washington, D.C.: U.S. President Donald Trump said he was unaware of America’s imports of Russian fertilisers and uranium when asked to respond to India’s accusations of “double standards” regarding Washington’s criticism of New Delhi’s oil trade with Russia.
India Calls Out U.S. on Hypocrisy
India had earlier lashed out at Trump’s sharp criticism, defending its imports from Russia as a strategic necessity during global energy instability caused by the Ukraine war. India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong statement stating that Western nations, including the U.S., were themselves engaged in trade with Russia — importing uranium for nuclear plants, palladium for EVs, and key fertilisers — while criticising India for securing affordable energy for its citizens.
Trump Warns of Tariff Hike, India Hits Back
Trump, in a Truth Social post, accused India of reselling Russian oil for profit and announced his intent to impose substantially higher tariffs on Indian goods. India rejected the charges as “unjustified and unreasonable,” pointing out that the U.S. had earlier supported such energy trade to stabilise global markets. Trump did not mention specifics about the new tariffs but said “major actions” were being considered.
Energy Strategy and Long-Term Ties with Russia
India’s oil imports from Russia rose from 0.2% to over 35% of its crude supply, prompted by Western buyers shifting toward Middle Eastern sources post-war. India maintained that this shift was not political but essential to manage domestic energy demands. Despite Western pressure, New Delhi has maintained its strategic partnership with Moscow, citing decades-long ties and national interest.
