A day after imposing tariffs, Trump calls Indian economy “dead.”
Earlier, Donald Trump had sharply criticized India’s trade policies, describing them as “most strenuous and obnoxious.” He accused India of imposing high tariffs on American goods and creating unfair trade barriers that disadvantage the United States. These remarks reflect Trump’s long-standing frustration with what he views as India’s protectionist stance. His comments have added tension to U.S.-India trade relations, which have already seen disagreements over tariffs and market access.
Trump Slams India Again, Calls Its Economy ‘Dead’; Rahul Gandhi Agrees, Slams Modi Govt
Washington / New Delhi:
In a scathing attack that has further strained Indo-US ties, former US President Donald Trump launched fresh criticism of India and Russia, accusing both nations of clinging to what he termed as “dead economies.” His remarks came just hours after announcing a hefty 25 percent tariff on all Indian imports and a yet-to-be-detailed penalty over India’s continued trade with Russia — particularly in crude oil and defense.
“I don’t care what India does with Russia. “We have done very little business with India. Their tariffs are too high — among the highest in the world,” he added.
The announcement caught New Delhi off-guard, especially since Indian officials had just confirmed that a US trade delegation would be visiting on August 25 to work out a trade agreement. Many observers are viewing the move as a pressure tactic to force India to agree to terms more favorable to Washington — much like the deals the US recently.
In that same social media post, Trump lashed out at India’s trade practices, calling them “most strenuous and obnoxious.” He made it clear that unless India made significant concessions, the 25 percent tariff and the additional penalty would come into effect from August 1.
“All things not good!” he wrote.
Trump’s remarks, although diplomatically provocative, found surprising resonance back home in India — particularly with Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. Speaking at Parliament, Gandhi said Trump was only echoing what “every Indian already knows,” except perhaps Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
“He is right,” said Gandhi. I’m glad that President Trump has stated a fact.”
Taking his attack further, Gandhi claimed that India’s economic destruction was not a result of mismanagement alone but part of a calculated effort to benefit industrialists like Gautam Adani. “The BJP has destroyed India’s economy to help Adani,” he alleged, referring to one of India’s most controversial business tycoons with close ties to the government.
Foreign Policy in QuestionGandhi didn’t stop at economic issues. He also targeted the Modi government’s handling of foreign affairs. But on one hand, the US is mocking you, on the other, China is threatening you. And when you send delegations abroad, no country even mentions Pakistan. How are they running the country?” he asked.
Referring to Modi’s recent speech in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi said the Prime Minister conveniently avoided any mention of either Trump or China — two of the most pressing concerns facing India today. Trump is having lunch with Pakistan’s military chief, the man behind the Pahalgam attack, and they say there has been a big success. What success is this?” Gandhi asked, his tone laced with disbelief.
"Trump Has Control": Gandhi's Stark AllegationRahul Gandhi also brought up Trump’s earlier claims about mediating between India and Pakistan during previous border skirmishes. “Trump has said 30 times that he got the ceasefire done between India and Pakistan. Why is Modi silent? Who’s really in control here?”
As India reels from Trump’s economic blow and awaits the outcome of the scheduled trade delegation’s visit later this month, the larger question remains: Is the government prepared to stand its ground — economically and diplomatically?
In the days ahead, all eyes will be on Prime Minister Modi’s response — not just to Trump’s inflammatory comments, but also to the broader concerns being raised at home. For now, the silence is deafening.