Washington–New Delhi Tensions Rise: The US has escalated its pressure on India over Russian oil imports, with President Donald Trump now urging European Union nations to adopt the same hardline stance. The White House wants Europe to not only halt energy trade with India but also impose secondary tariffs to tighten the squeeze.
India Defies Pressure
Despite Washington’s 50% tariff on Indian goods, New Delhi has not bowed to American pressure. India maintains that Western nations are showing a double standard, pointing out that China and European countries continue to buy oil and gas from Russia without facing punitive action.
US Accusations Against India
According to the US, India’s continued purchase of Russian crude is helping Moscow financially, indirectly fueling the Ukraine war. The Trump administration insists that without stronger action from Europe, sanctions lose their effectiveness.
Europe’s Silence and Trump’s Frustration
As per India Today, several European leaders publicly back Trump’s stance on ending the war, but behind closed doors, they are accused of stalling progress at the Alaska summit with Putin. US officials believe Europe is pushing for a “better deal” on Ukraine, which in turn is prolonging the war, further angering the White House.
Key Talks Ahead in Tianjin
The matter is expected to take center stage at the upcoming SCO Summit in Tianjin, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin will hold trilateral discussions. Diplomatic insiders suggest that the US tariffs on India and the Russia-Ukraine war will dominate the agenda, potentially shaping new alliances in Eurasian geopolitics.
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