Why Trump Keeps Ranting Against India: 3 Key Drivers

KHUSHI KUMARI

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Donald Trump has repeatedly slammed India—on tariffs, trade barriers, and its Russia ties—raising questions about his motives

Trump aims to force India into major concessions through tariff threats, leveraging a 25 % tariff and punishment for Russia-linked dealings

He accuses India of profiting by buying discounted Russian oil and military deals, using it as leverage to isolate India geopolitically

Trump leverages India’s narrative to burnish his strongman image—typical of his unconventional diplomacy and personal ego politics

Trump claimed he forced India to pause its Operation Sindoor via trade threats—but Indian leaders publicly refuted this, citing their own military success

Analysts estimate that India could lose $7 billion annually from reciprocal tariffs, impacting sectors like pharma, machinery, and pearls

Trump’s aggressive rhetoric has cooled India–U.S. camaraderie. Tensions now complicate a high‑stakes push toward a $500 billion trade deal