US Senator Gregory Meeks has sharply criticised President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on India over its purchase of Russian oil. He called it a “tariff tantrum” that risks more than two decades of bipartisan effort to strengthen US-India ties. These ties rest on strategic, economic, and people-to-people connections. Meeks stressed that disagreements must be handled respectfully and in line with democratic values.
Trump’s steeper global tariffs came into force on Thursday, reshaping trade rules worldwide. Dozens of US partners are now scrambling for relief. The White House says the move will revive US manufacturing. However, economists warn it could drive up inflation and slow growth.
India Calls Move “Unfair”
The latest decision has put new strain on a relationship that has been carefully nurtured since the early 2000s. Last month, Trump imposed a 25% baseline tariff on India and froze trade talks. New Delhi noted the irony that China received yet another extension despite being a strategic rival, while India, a declared “friend,” faced penalties.
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On August 4, Trump doubled the duty to 50% and warned of secondary penalties on nations importing Russian oil. India’s Foreign Ministry called the decision “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable” and pledged to take “all actions necessary” to protect national interests.
Wider Tariff Shock
Alongside India, other key US partners face sharp increases. The president raised import duties from 10% to between 15% and 41% for various trading partners. Even the EU, Japan, and South Korea — with existing trade deals — now face 15% tariffs.
Washington also slapped a 100% duty on semiconductor imports. However, goods already en route to the US before Thursday, and arriving before October 5, will be spared.
Trade experts expect costs to hit American consumers. Georgetown University professor Marc Busch said businesses will pass along more of the tariff bill as inventories fall.
Strategic Gamble on Russia
Trump’s tariff escalation links directly to his Russia policy. By punishing India’s oil purchases from Moscow, Washington aims to cut a major revenue stream for the Kremlin’s war in Ukraine.
Yet this approach risks alienating one of America’s most important partners in the Indo-Pacific at a time of rising Chinese assertiveness. The strategy could weaken a critical alliance in favour of short-term economic leverage.
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Severe Blow for Indian Exporters
The Federation of Indian Export Organisations warned the move is a “severe setback,” impacting nearly 55% of India’s shipments to the US. Sectors from textiles to engineering goods will feel the pinch. Many exporters now face uncertainty over orders already in production.
