External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar strongly criticised the United States and Europe for imposing tariffs on India. He argued that nobody was forced to buy refined oil or products from India.
At the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, he remarked, “It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other people of doing business. If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don’t buy it. Nobody forces you to buy it. Europe buys, America buys, so you don’t like it, don’t buy it."
India Rejects Mediation on Pakistan
Meanwhile, Jaishankar dismissed Donald Trump’s claim of brokering a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He stressed that India does not accept outside mediation on this issue.
Furthermore, he clarified the government’s position. “When it comes to the trade, the interests of farmers, when it comes to our strategic autonomy, when it comes to opposition to mediation, this government is very clear," he said.
In addition, he challenged critics directly. “If anybody disagrees with us, please tell the people of India that you are not prepared to defend the interests of farmers. Please tell the people of India you don’t value strategic autonomy. We do. We will do whatever we have to do to maintain it."
Tariff Dispute with the US
However, Jaishankar’s remarks came as trade tensions with Washington deepened. Recently, President Donald Trump imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods. Moreover, he added another 25% penalty for India’s rising purchase of Russian oil.
In response, India condemned the move. It called the tariffs “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” The government also warned that it would take all necessary steps to protect national interests. Additionally, officials pointed out that other countries also buy Russian oil, yet India was being unfairly singled out.
US Accuses India of Profiting from Russian Oil
Later, the dispute escalated after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused India of profiteering. He claimed India’s imports of Russian oil had surged to 42% of total oil purchases, compared to less than 1% before the Ukraine war.
By contrast, he noted that China, the largest buyer of Russian crude, had increased its share only from 13% to 16%. Consequently, his criticism added more strain, especially since it came shortly after US trade negotiators suddenly cancelled a planned visit to New Delhi.