Trump's Trade Tensions With India Escalate Over Russian Oil And SCO Summit
Former US President Donald Trump has taken a hard line on trade with India. He expressed clear frustration with New Delhi's foreign policy moves. This comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with leaders from China and Russia at a major international gathering.
A Sudden Shift In Tone From The Former President
Trump initially seemed to criticize India's growing closeness with China. He suggested the United States had lost India to its Asian rival. However, he quickly reversed that position. The former president now insists he and Prime Minister Modi will always remain friends.
This stunning U-turn did not prevent further economic action. Trump declared what some are calling a trade war. He announced significant new tariffs on Indian goods. The move adds a 25 percent duty on top of existing charges.
India's Defiance On Russian Energy Triggers Ultimatum
The core issue appears to be India's continued purchase of Russian oil. Despite Western pressure following the Ukraine conflict, India has maintained this energy trade. This defiance reportedly angered the Trump camp.
Sources indicate India received a stern 24-hour warning. The message demanded an immediate halt to buying Russian crude. The alternative was facing serious economic consequences from Washington.
India's position remains firm. Officials argue the country must secure affordable energy for its growing economy. They reject the idea of sacrificing national interest for geopolitical alignment.
Modi's Diplomatic Moves At The SCO Summit
Prime Minister Modi's participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit added fuel to the fire. His meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping were closely watched.
Modi used the platform to criticize what he called selfish economic policies. He did not name any country directly. But observers noted the comments came shortly after Trump's tariff announcement.
The visible camaraderie between Modi, Putin, and Xi at the summit created waves. Trump's trade adviser reportedly reacted with rage. He called the scene a shame and accused it of undermining American strategy.
Broader Geopolitical Reactions
The situation reflects wider global tensions. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov made a separate declaration. He stated Putin would not meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky under current conditions.
Lavrov questioned how Russia could negotiate with someone he described as pretending to lead. This statement surprised the Trump team and added another layer to complex international relations.
Domestic Focus Amid International Pressure
While managing these external challenges, Prime Minister Modi also addressed critical domestic issues. He visited Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since a tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
During his speech, Modi accused Pakistan of attacking the core spirit of Kashmir. He emphasized India's commitment to the region's development and security.
Separately, a natural disaster struck Sikkim. A massive landslide hit an Indian Army camp after the Teesta River overflowed. The incident resulted in three personnel killed and six others missing.
Indian Diplomacy On The Global Stage
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor also contributed to the narrative. Speaking in Guyana, he mocked Pakistan's claims over Kashmir. Tharoor stated Pakistan desires territory it does not and will not possess.
His full speech highlighted India's confident diplomatic posture. It reinforced the message that India will not be pressured into changing its sovereign positions.
The coming weeks will test this resolve as trade tensions with the United States continue to simmer.
