US-India relations entered a turbulent phase when Donald Trump tore into India for its continued oil imports from Russia and slow progress on trade negotiations. Formerly close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump, accusing India of funding Russia’s war in Ukraine, has vowed to raise tariffs on Indian exports to 50%. India regards its Russian energy imports as economically necessary; it has a longstanding relationship with Russia and is among the largest importers of Russian oil. Modi’s government has so far resisted Trump’s pressure, particularly over opening up US access to the heavily protected agriculture and dairy sectors. In response to Trump’s belligerent language, Modi has called on citizens to buy only Indian-made goods, leading to greater economic self-reliance. Political commentators note that it will be very difficult for Modi to give any large concessions in a trade deal, given the growing anger within India towards Trump.
India: relationships with the USA take a downward turn
Written by David Fletcher 07 Aug 2025
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- Pray: that India and the USA will seek mutual respect and wisdom in resolving tensions with integrity and balance. (Romans 12:18)
- More: asianews.network/us-president-trumps-sharp-india-criticism-on-tariffs-russia-oil-corner-pm-modi-as-rift-deepens/
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