Trump's Tariff Turmoil: India-U.S. Trade Relations Tested

U.S. President Donald Trump sparked a fresh wave of tension in international trade by imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods. The decision, announced on Wednesday, is centered on New Delhi's sustained imports of Russian oil, a move that puts India's export dynamics at significant risk.

The new tariff rules, commencing 21 days post-August 7, could surge duties on Indian exports up to 50%, posing a severe challenge for sectors such as textiles, footwear, and jewelry. This escalation marks a pronounced shift in U.S.-India relations since Trump resumed office.

India's external affairs ministry condemned the move as "extremely unfortunate," asserting that many other nations pursue Russian oil imports to serve their economic interests. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi plans his China visit, potential strategic realignments loom amid straining ties with Washington.

(With inputs from agencies.)