US President Donald Trump issued a new warning just hours after raising tariffs on Indian imports to 50%. He threatened more sanctions on countries that continue trading oil with Russia.

At the Oval Office, a reporter asked why Trump targeted India but not China, which also imports Russian oil. Trump replied, “It’s only been eight hours. So let’s see what happens. You’re going to see a lot more. You’re going to see so many secondary sanctions.”

Trump's comments reflect growing US pressure on countries to cut business ties with Russia after its Ukraine invasion.

Peace deal might change tariff decision

A reporter asked if a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine might end the new tariffs. Trump responded, “We’ll determine that later.”

Tariff hike targets India’s Russian oil trade

The US announced the new tariff in response to India’s continued oil trade with Russia. The hike doubles the earlier rate to 50%. These tariffs will take effect in 21 days. The US expects India and Russia to use this time to negotiate.

India hits back

India strongly criticised the US move. The Ministry of External Affairs called the tariff hike “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

In a statement, the ministry said, “The United States has recently targeted India’s oil imports from Russia. We have already made our position clear—our purchases are driven by market factors and aimed at securing the energy needs of 1.4 billion Indians.”

India stays firm on energy security

The US wants countries to isolate Russia economically. But India continues to buy cheap Russian oil to protect its economy and meet domestic demand.

The move could strain India-US trade ties. More diplomatic talks may follow in the coming weeks.