Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: The Trump administration has asked the US Supreme Court to overturn a federal appeals court ruling that declared most of its sweeping tariffs illegal, arguing that tariffs on India are linked to efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
Tariffs as “Push for Peace”
In its filing, the administration claimed that President Trump’s decision to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) was part of a broader geopolitical strategy. “The President recently authorised IEEPA tariffs against India for purchasing Russian energy products, to deal with a preexisting national emergency regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine, as a crucial aspect of his push for peace in that war-torn country,” the filing stated.
Tariff Hikes Against India
On August 27, the US doubled tariffs on India to 50%, partly to penalize New Delhi for increasing Russian oil imports and partly under Trump’s “America First” policy to reduce trade deficits. Trump argued that tariffs have turned the US from a “dead country” into a financially strong and respected one, saying trillions in payments from trading partners have restored America’s power.
Legal Challenge
Last week, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled 7–4 that Trump exceeded his authority by using emergency economic powers to impose tariffs. The ruling said that while the president can act under a declared national emergency, the IEEPA statute does not authorize the imposition of duties, taxes, or tariffs. However, the appeals court allowed tariffs to remain temporarily in place while the administration appeals to the Supreme Court.
Trump’s Response
Trump blasted the ruling on Truth Social, calling it “incorrect” and vowing to win at the Supreme Court “with the help”of the justices. He has framed tariffs as essential to both America’s financial strength and foreign policy leverage, particularly in relation to Ukraine and Russia.
Diplomatic Stakes
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the tariffs, warning that suspending them would cause “dangerous diplomatic embarrassment.” Analysts note the case could have far-reaching consequences for US trade policy, executive powers, and the ongoing geopolitical tussle involving India, Russia, and the West.
