A few hours after President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports, a Finnish think tank released fresh data that challenges the decision. This new tariff, added to an existing 25%, brings the total duty on Indian goods to 50%. The Trump administration justifies the move by accusing India of supporting Russia’s war efforts through its continued oil trade with Moscow.

Finnish Report Challenges US Claims

Soon after the tariff hike, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) shared new findings. According to the data, European Union countries have contributed 23% of Russia’s fossil fuel revenue since the Ukraine war began. India’s share is only 13%. The report highlights what many in India see as a clear case of bias.

India Calls Out Western Hypocrisy

Indian government officials pointed to these figures as proof of Western double standards. They say the West targets India while ignoring others who buy even more from Russia.

Officials told The Times of India, “These figures only vindicate India’s emphasis on ensuring regular and affordable energy supplies for its citizens.” They also said the EU still imports Russian chemicals, iron, steel, and vehicles, apart from fossil fuels.

Sanctions Follow Tariffs

The US tariff hike came shortly after the EU imposed sanctions on Indian refiner Nayara Energy. These steps follow Trump’s recent accusation that India is “fuelling the Russian war machine.”

However, Indian officials say the West continues to do business with Russia, even while asking others to stop.

Russia’s Biggest Buyers Revealed

According to CREA, Russia has earned €923 billion from fossil fuel exports since the war started. That includes sales of oil, gas, coal, and refined products.

• EU countries bought €212 billion worth

• China imported over €200 billion

• India purchased €121 billion

Despite China and the EU buying more, India faces the harshest criticism.

G7+ Tankers Move Russian Oil

The report also shows that G7+ countries are still helping move Russian oil. Since January, their share in shipping Russian oil rose from 36% to 56%. In June alone, over half of Russia’s seaborne oil exports used G7+ tankers six percentage points higher than in May. This shipping continues even after the EU imposed new sanctions in June.

India Defends Its Oil Purchases

India says its oil imports from Russia are based on national needs. Russian oil makes up 9% of the world’s daily supply. Officials argue that cutting off this source would cause global price spikes. That’s why both the US and EU chose a price cap instead of a full ban—to avoid disrupting global supply while limiting Moscow’s income

India Pushes Back with Data

India believes the West is using selective pressure. Officials say they are being unfairly targeted, while others continue trade with Russia without facing similar backlash. By sharing these new numbers, India hopes to show that its actions are driven by economics, not politics. The message is clear: India will put its energy security first, even if the West disapproves.