India has strongly condemned the United States’ decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, raising the overall levy to 50%, in retaliation for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a sharp statement on Wednesday, calling the move “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable,” while vowing to take all necessary steps to protect India’s national interests.

US Action: Tariffs to Take Effect on August 27

Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order slapping the extra tariff, which will come into effect 21 days from now, on August 27. The order accuses India of both directly and indirectly supporting Russia’s economy by importing Russian crude oil and allegedly selling refined products on the open market for profit.

In his statement, Trump alleged that India’s actions were financing Russia’s war against Ukraine. He further accused India of “profiteering” while ignoring the human cost of the war. “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,” Trump declared.

The U.S. President also issued a warning, stating that any retaliation by India or other affected countries could prompt him to “modify this order to ensure its efficacy.”

India’s Response: Firm Stand on Energy Security

Reacting strongly, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reiterated that India’s crude oil imports are driven by market factors and the need to ensure the energy security of its 1.4 billion citizens. The statement emphasized that several other countries, including U.S. allies in Europe, also continue to import Russian oil for their own strategic needs.

The ministry said, “It is therefore extremely unfortunate that the U.S. has chosen to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other nations are also taking in their national interest.”

Global Trade and Diplomatic Fallout

This development marks a new low in U.S.-India trade relations, which were already under strain due to earlier disputes over tariffs and market access. The extra duties are expected to hit key Indian export sectors, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, gems, and electronics, increasing uncertainty for businesses on both sides.

While India remains firm in defending its energy policy, analysts warn that the escalating tariff war could have broader economic and diplomatic implications, potentially impacting bilateral cooperation in defense, technology, and clean energy.