A significant geopolitical confrontation is unfolding as both Moscow and New Delhi have publicly rejected the US’s latest attempts to pressure India into halting its trade with Russia. The Kremlin, through its spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, labeled the US’s threats of revised tariffs as “illegal,” stressing that countries have a sovereign right to choose their trade partners.
The controversy stems from US President Donald Trump’s recent warning to India. In a social media post, Trump accused India of “buying massive amounts of Russian Oil” and reselling it for profit, stating that this practice was indifferent to the war in Ukraine. As a consequence, he threatened to “substantially” raise tariffs, adding to the 25% tariffs that were already put in place on August 1.
The Indian government’s response mirrored Russia’s defiant tone. The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement that called the targeting of India “unjustified and unreasonable.” It asserted that India would take all necessary measures to protect its “national interests and economic security,” a clear message that it would not be swayed by US pressure.
This alignment of India and Russia against US demands demonstrates the limits of Washington’s ability to dictate global trade policy. Both nations are emphasizing the principles of national sovereignty and self-interest in the face of economic coercion. The situation highlights the complexity of modern alliances, as countries balance their relationships with multiple global powers.