Trump’s 50% Tariff Onslaught on India Backfires as New Delhi Slams U.S. Hypocrisy

On August 6, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, raising the total tariff to 50%, as a penalty for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. This follows an initial 25% tariff set to take effect on August 7, with the new levy effective in 21 days, on August 27. Trump cited India’s oil imports as fueling Russia’s war in Ukraine, accusing New Delhi of profiting by reselling Russian oil. India’s Ministry of External Affairs called the move “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” emphasizing that its imports are driven by market factors and the need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion people. India also highlighted that the U.S. and EU continue trade with Russia, pointing out perceived double standards. The tariff hike, among the highest globally, could reduce Indian exports to the U.S. by 40-50%, impacting sectors like textiles and leather. This escalation strains U.S.-India trade relations, with ongoing talks for a bilateral trade agreement now uncertain. #TrumpTariffs, #IndiaUSRelations, #RussianOil, #TradeWar, #GlobalCommerce