Trump Rejects Tariff Talks as India Faces Hike.
India has expressed deep disappointment over the United States’ decision to impose additional tariffs, calling it “extremely unfortunate.” Officials stated that the move unfairly targets India for actions that many, New Delhi emphasized that such measures undermine the spirit of mutual cooperation and could strain bilateral relations.
New York: US President Donald Trump has firmly ruled out entering into fresh negotiations with India over the latest round of tariffs, which are set to rise to a steep 50 per cent later this month.
When asked by a reporter if talks might resume following the announcement, Trump’s response was curt and to the point: “No, not until we get it resolved.”
Exactly what “resolved” meant remained unclear. Observers were left wondering whether Trump was referring to the resolution of the Ukraine War — given that the new 25 per cent punitive tariff he announced on Wednesday is tied to India’s purchase of Russian oil — or to some settlement of the broader trade disputes that had already triggered a separate 25 per cent tariff on Indian goods just last week.
**The Russia Connection**The tariffs are part of a wider web of sanctions and trade measures linked to Russia’s war in Ukraine. These penalties, known as secondary tariffs, would target not only Russia but also its oil customers.
But in a sudden escalation, Trump shortened the deadline to just 12 days, ending this Friday. Before that shortened period even ran out, he slapped the new 25 per cent tariff on India — a move that took many by surprise. The tariff, however, will not actually take effect until August 27, giving a short window for either diplomatic engagement or economic adjustment.
**India’s Strong Reaction**India did not mince words in its response. own national interest.”
New Delhi argued that it is unfair to single out one country for buying Russian oil when others are engaging in similar practices. The Indian government made it clear it will “take all actions necessary to protect its national interests,” signalling that retaliatory measures or appeals through international trade bodies could be on the table.
Officials also voiced concern that such measures could harm the spirit of cooperation between the two nations — especially at a time when both had been talking optimistically about a broader trade agreement.
**From Optimism to Uncertainty**Only a month ago, Trump and Indian officials were publicly expressing optimism about reaching a trade deal. Both sides had hinted that an agreement was “imminent,” and there had even been behind-the-scenes preparations for possible signing ceremonies.
Now, those hopes appear to have dimmed. The abrupt tariff escalation has injected fresh tension into the relationship, leaving many wondering whether the once-promising trade talks can be salvaged in the near term.
Adding another twist, the Kremlin announced on Thursday that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump are planning to meet soon. US media outlets, citing American officials, reported that such a meeting could happen as early as next week.
Trump himself did not confirm a specific date but indicated that Russia’s leadership is eager for dialogue. “They would like to meet with me,” he said.
The possibility of a Trump–Putin meeting adds yet another variable to an already complex equation. Any breakthrough in those talks could, in theory, affect US policy on sanctions and tariffs, but for now, Washington’s stance toward India remains firm.
**What’s at Stake**At 50 per cent, they could significantly hurt Indian exporters, raise costs for US consumers, and strain supply chains at a time when both countries are still navigating post-pandemic economic challenges.
For India, the stakes go beyond economics. Accepting the tariffs without pushback could set a precedent for how other countries might treat its trade decisions in the future. For the US, maintaining pressure on Russia while managing relationships with allies and strategic partners like India is a delicate balancing act — one that risks backfiring if it alienates key partners.
**The Road Ahead**With less than three weeks until the tariffs take effect, both governments face tough choices. Diplomats in New Delhi and Washington are expected to continue back-channel communications, but the public rhetoric on both sides suggests that neither is ready to back down.
The situation is complicated by the ongoing war in Ukraine, shifting geopolitical alliances, and the unpredictable nature of Trump’s foreign policy moves. As August 27 approaches, businesses, trade analysts, and political leaders will be watching closely to see whether this latest flare-up marks a temporary setback — or the beginning of a longer, more contentious chapter in US–India relations.
For now, what’s certain is that the optimism of last month has been replaced by uncertainty, and the clock is ticking toward a decision point that could reshape economic ties between the world’s two largest democracies.