India Fights Back: US Tariff Hikes Stir Indo-US Trade Tensions

In a bold move escalating Indo-US trade tensions, the United States has imposed a 25% additional tariff on Indian goods. India's firm response on Wednesday condemned the action as 'unfair' and 'unjustified,' citing its strategic energy ties with Moscow as the root cause.

US President Donald Trump's recent executive order targets India's continued oil imports from Russia. New Delhi, steadfast in its position, stated that its energy imports are crucial for the security of its 1.4 billion citizens. The Ministry of External Affairs argued that these imports are driven by market dynamics and are necessary for national interest.

As the tariffs are set to double in 21 days, impacted sectors like textiles, marine, and leather face a tough economic strain. Despite the pressure, India remains resolute in defending its sovereign energy decisions, highlighting that other countries also engage in similar procurement.

(With inputs from agencies.)