India Condemns "Unfair" New US Tariffs
India has issued a strong condemnation of the United States' decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on its goods, labeling the move as "unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable." The sharp response came after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order penalizing India for its continued oil trade with Russia, escalating trade tensions between the two nations.
A Stand on Energy Security
In a firm statement, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reiterated its position on importing oil from Russia. The ministry clarified that these imports are based on market factors and are driven by the critical need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion people. The MEA expressed deep disappointment that the US chose to impose punitive tariffs on India for actions that many other countries are also taking to serve their own national interests.
Vow to Protect National Interests
The Indian government has made it clear that it will not back down. The MEA's statement concluded with a resolute declaration that India "will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests." This firm stance signals that New Delhi is prepared to respond to the US measures, setting the stage for a potential escalation in the trade dispute. The development marks a significant point of friction in the bilateral relationship, centered on India's sovereign economic and foreign policy choices.
