🇺🇸 America First Meets Global Pushback
India is lashing out after President Donald Trump vowed to dramatically increase tariffs on the country for continuing to buy and resell Russian oil—despite ongoing bloodshed in Ukraine.
In a statement released Monday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs declared its oil purchases from Moscow are a “strategic necessity” to maintain stable and affordable energy prices. The ministry noted that this policy was previously encouraged by the West when energy markets were under pressure.
India didn’t mince words, calling out the U.S. and European Union for hypocrisy, given that both continue some level of energy trade with Russia even as the conflict rages.
“Targeting India is unjustified and unreasonable,” the ministry’s spokesperson said.
“Like any major economy, India will act decisively to protect its national interests and economic security.”
đź’Ą Trump: Enough is Enough
President Trump responded strongly, accusing India of putting profits above human life by reselling discounted Russian oil on the open market.
“They don’t care how many people are dying in Ukraine,” Trump said on Truth Social.
“India is buying huge amounts of Russian oil—then turning around and flipping it for massive profits. I will be substantially raising tariffs on all Indian oil-related imports into the U.S.”
While Trump didn’t specify the new tariff rate, he hinted it would rise sharply from the 25% level he had floated last month.
🛑 A Pattern of Defiance
This isn’t Trump’s first warning to India. He previously criticized New Delhi for buying Russian military hardware and undermining global sanctions meant to isolate Moscow.
Yet despite repeated warnings, India continues to describe its relationship with Russia as “steady and time-tested.” Over the weekend, Indian officials doubled down, declaring they will not halt purchases from Russia and will continue to prioritize national energy needs over foreign pressure.
📉 Secondary Tariffs Incoming
China, another top buyer of Russian oil, has thus far avoided similar threats from Trump—but that may soon change. The President has now set a hard deadline: if Russian President Vladimir Putin fails to agree to a ceasefire by August 8, Trump says he will impose “secondary tariffs” of up to 100% on all countries aiding Moscow’s economy.
This bold strategy aims to squeeze Putin financially without direct military conflict—a key message to voters concerned about endless wars and unchecked foreign spending.
đź’ˇ Bottom Line for Americans
President Trump is once again putting America First by holding foreign governments accountable and protecting U.S. jobs, energy markets, and national security. With election season heating up and global tensions rising, his tough stance could reshape international trade—and send a message that the days of unchecked foreign freeloading are over.