Trump's Tariff Tussle: Straining US-India Trade Relations

President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports, significantly impacting the trade route between the two nations. This development was confirmed by Wendy Cutler, a former U.S. trade official, who expressed concern over the escalating trade dispute.

According to Cutler, both Indian and American officials need to address their differences behind closed doors to prevent further deterioration of bilateral relations, especially as geopolitical dynamics with Beijing might shift.

The newly signed executive order by President Trump cites India's purchase of Russian oil as a primary motivator, a move deemed by India as 'unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable'. The new tariffs, effective in 21 days, add to India's current tariff burden, now totaling 50%.

(With inputs from agencies.)