In a recent cabinet meeting, President Trump criticized India’s trade practices, labeling the relationship a “totally one sided disaster.” He stated India offered to cut tariffs to zero, though it was too late, while also accusing India of buying Russian oil and arms. This critique followed the U.S.’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian exports, due to what the U.S. perceived as India’s high tariffs on American goods. Trump’s statements come amid souring relations and data showing a disparity in average tariffs between the two countries, further complicated by India’s stance on trade with Russia.
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According to The New York Times, President Trump no longer plans to visit India for the Quad Summit later this year. The report indicates a deterioration in relations between Trump and Prime Minister Modi, reportedly stemming from Trump’s claims of solving the India-Pakistan conflict. Tensions escalated after a tense phone call in June, contributing to a strained relationship amid existing trade disputes. This shift raises concerns about the future of the Quad alliance, a critical component of US-India cooperation.
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US Trade Advisor Peter Navarro has criticized India’s import of Russian oil, referring to the Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war.” These comments came as the US implemented tariffs of up to 50% on Indian goods, with additional penalties for purchasing weapons and oil from Russia. India, now heavily reliant on Russian oil, has defended its actions by insisting on seeking the “best deal” while also criticizing the lack of similar measures against China and the EU. Despite the tension, there’s hope for a resolution as US officials express confidence in the relationship, while India focuses on mitigating the economic impact.
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Following an executive order by US President Trump imposing a 25% tariff on Indian imports due to continued oil trade with Russia, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strong response. The MEA condemned the tariff increase as unfair and unreasonable. In defense of its national interests, India declared it would take all necessary measures. The increase brings the total tariff on Indian goods to 50%.
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India’s Modi to visit China for first time in 7 years as tensions with US rise, a significant development in the current geopolitical landscape. It’s hard not to notice the undercurrent of shifting alliances and the impact of global power plays, especially when considering the implications for US foreign policy. This trip to China marks a potential turning point, especially given the recent strain in India’s relationship with the United States.
The timing of the visit is particularly interesting. We know that Prime Minister Modi is set to attend a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, starting August 31st. This summit provides a platform for multilateral discussions, but this specific meeting takes on added weight because of the context.… Continue reading
President Donald Trump has imposed a new 25% tariff on India, bringing the total levies against the major US trading partner to 50%. This action, announced in an executive order, stems from India’s import of Russian oil, with the President warning of similar actions against other countries engaging in such trade. The new tariffs are set to take effect in 21 days, following the implementation of previously announced tariffs, making this among the highest levies the US has imposed on any trading partner. India responded by calling the tariffs “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” emphasizing that their oil imports are based on market factors and energy security.
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The Russian ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, has criticized the West for undermining its relationship with India through threats and sanctions related to India’s dealings with Moscow. Alipov stated that the US and EU’s actions, particularly sanction threats, reveal them as unreliable partners. He argued that these actions are perceived as illegitimate and are not fostering trust, while emphasizing that India’s energy security will guide its foreign policy decisions. Alipov further asserted that Russia has never pursued its relationship with India at the expense of others, unlike the US, which is undermining not only Russia’s interests but also India’s.
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Former US President Donald Trump has criticized India’s economic relationship with Russia, labeling both economies as “dead.” He has also expressed dissatisfaction with India’s high tariffs, stating that this has limited trade between the two nations. Simultaneously, Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all Indian exports to the US, effective August 1st, as a penalty for India’s continued purchases of Russian military and energy equipment. Trump views these actions as undermining global efforts to isolate Russia.
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President Trump claimed credit for mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, attributing the success to leveraging trade negotiations. He stated that both countries’ leaders are now getting along, potentially averting a major conflict. However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs directly contradicted Trump’s assertion, stating that trade was never discussed during negotiations regarding the ceasefire. The ceasefire, achieved on May 10th, followed discussions between Indian and US leaders regarding the escalating military situation.
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Contrary to President Trump’s assertion that trade played a significant role in halting hostilities between India and Pakistan, sources familiar with the matter deny any discussion of trade during high-level US-India communications preceding the ceasefire. These discussions, involving Vice President Vance and Secretary of State Rubio, occurred on May 8th, 9th, and 10th. The Indian government maintains that the cessation of military actions was a bilateral agreement between the two countries’ Directors General of Military Operations. Trump’s claim of a US-brokered ceasefire and the pivotal role of trade negotiations has been disputed by Indian officials.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood