Tensions between the United States and India escalated on Monday after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to substantially raise tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s continued purchase and resale of Russian oil.

In a social media post, Trump accused India of profiting from Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, stating:

“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits. They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine.”
“Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA.”

India’s Ministry of External Affairs swiftly condemned the statement, describing the criticism as “unjustified and unreasonable.” A spokesperson said India would “take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.”

Trump’s remarks come ahead of a new wave of sanctions he has promised to impose on Russia and its energy partners beginning Friday, unless President Vladimir Putin alters course in the ongoing war, which has now entered its fourth year. However, there has been no indication from Moscow of any policy shift.

Despite growing Western pressure since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, India has maintained robust trade ties with Russia, citing strategic interests and energy security. Two senior Indian officials told Reuters over the weekend that India would continue purchasing Russian oil despite U.S. threats.

From January to June 2025, India imported about 1.75 million barrels of Russian crude per day—a 1% increase from the same period last year, according to trade data cited by Reuters.

This is not the first trade-related friction between the two countries under Trump. In July, he imposed 25% tariffs on Indian imports, citing broader geopolitical concerns and ongoing barriers to a U.S.–India trade deal.

Trump also recently criticized the BRICS bloc—which includes India, Russia, China, Brazil, and South Africa—labeling it as “hostile to the United States.” Member nations have rejected the claim, insisting that the group supports the interests of developing economies.