Moscow has come to New Delhi’s defense following US President Donald Trump’s latest ultimatum. On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov slammed the US threats of revised tariffs against India as “illegal,” stating that no country has the right to force another to abandon its trade relationships. The Russian government’s statement underscores its close and growing ties with India.
The diplomatic spat began a day earlier when Trump posted a warning to India on social media. He criticized India for its purchases of Russian oil, which he said were being resold for a profit. Trump argued that this trade showed a disregard for the conflict in Ukraine and threatened to “substantially” increase tariffs on Indian goods as a result. This new threat follows the imposition of a 25% tariff on August 1, which was justified by the US as a response to India’s high tariffs on American products.
In a strong-worded response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs rejected the US pressure, calling the targeting of India “unjustified and unreasonable.” The statement affirmed New Delhi’s commitment to “safeguard its national interests and economic security,” signaling that it would not alter its trade policies due to US demands.
The unfolding situation reveals a clear divide in the international community. Russia and India are presenting a united front in defense of their economic partnership, challenging the US’s attempts to use its economic power to enforce its foreign policy agenda. The Kremlin’s public support for India adds a new layer to the complex geopolitics of the global trade system.
Moscow Defends New Delhi After Trump’s Latest Tariff Ultimatum
