Tensions Rise as Trump Threatens Tariffs Over India's Russian Oil Deals

In a dramatic turn of events, Revolutionary Socialist Party MP NK Premachandran has urged the Indian government to respond to U.S. President Donald Trump's threats of increased tariffs. The demand comes in the wake of Trump's criticism over India's purchase of Russian oil, sparking diplomatic tensions.

President Trump, on Monday, declared plans to significantly hike tariffs on India, accusing the nation of profiting from Russian oil while ignoring the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. "India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits," Trump expressed on Truth Social.

Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reportedly failing to counter Trump's warnings. Gandhi linked Modi's inaction to ongoing U.S. investigations into Adani Group, suggesting financial entanglements in Russian oil deals. India's Ministry of External Affairs maintains it's unaware of specifics amid defense of national energy policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)