Donald Trump says PM Modi ‘unhappy’ over US tariffs linked to Russian oil purchases

“I have a very good relationship with PM Modi, but he is not happy with me as India is paying high tariffs due to its purchase of Russian oil,” Trump said while delivering remarks at the House GOP Member Retreat.

India has consistently defended its decision to import Russian crude, stating that energy purchases are driven by national interest and the need to keep fuel prices affordable for its citizens.

New Delhi has maintained that it will continue engaging with all partners while safeguarding its strategic and economic priorities.

Trump’s remarks came a day after he warned that the US could further raise tariffs on Indian goods if American concerns over India’s Russian oil imports are not addressed.

“They wanted to make me happy, basically. PM Modi’s a very good man. He’s a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy,” Trump said earlier, adding, “They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly.”

PM Modi met Donald Trump last year in Washington DC. Photo: PIB.

The US has been seeking to reduce its trade deficit with India. Last year, Washington doubled tariffs on Indian imports to 50 per cent, citing India’s large-scale purchases of Russian oil.

While India and the US have been negotiating a potential trade agreement, talks have remained uneven. Discussions began earlier this year but were disrupted following the tariff hike.

Russia Oil and strategic differences

India emerged as the largest buyer of discounted Russian seaborne crude after the Ukraine war began in 2022, a move that has drawn criticism from Washington as it seeks to curb Russia’s energy revenues.

However, India has repeatedly said that purchasing Russian oil is essential to ensure energy security and manage domestic fuel costs.

Despite sharp comments on tariffs, Trump has continued to publicly praise Prime Minister Modi.

Recently, the US Embassy in India shared Trump’s remarks on social media, where he described India as “an amazing country” and Modi as a close partner.

“India is home to one of the world’s oldest civilisations. It is an amazing country and an important strategic partner for America in the Indo-Pacific region. We have a great friend in PM Modi,” Trump said.