US President Donald Trump has said that although he shares a warm personal relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, tensions have emerged due to Washington’s high tariffs on Indian goods. These tariffs were imposed because of India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
Speaking at the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump spoke about his conversations with PM Modi on defence deals and trade measures. He suggested that while overall relations remain friendly, the tariff issue has clearly caused discomfort for New Delhi.
“… I have a very good relationship with PM Modi, but he is not happy with me, as India is paying high tariffs. But now they have reduced it very substantially, buying oil from Russia,” Trump said.
Tariffs Linked to Russian Oil Purchases
The United States imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods last year. Washington described the move as a punishment for India’s decision to buy Russian oil, which the US believes helps fund Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Trump’s comments came just a day after he warned that the US could increase tariffs further if India fails to respond to American concerns over Russian oil imports. The issue has become a major point of friction between the two countries.
Trump Claims India Acted to Ease Tensions
Trump suggested that India made certain adjustments to improve ties with Washington. He said New Delhi was aware of his displeasure and wanted to maintain stable trade relations with the US.
“They wanted to make me happy, basically. Modi is a very good man; he is a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy,” he said.
According to Trump, tariff pressure played a role in shaping India’s approach, especially on trade and energy decisions.
Dispute Over Russian Oil Continues
The purchase of Russian oil has long been a sensitive issue between India and the US. Washington has accused New Delhi of “feeding Russia’s war machine” by continuing to import oil from Moscow at discounted rates.
However, India has rejected this criticism. It has said it will continue to buy energy based on cost advantages and logistical needs, despite pressure from the US.
Trade Pressure Remains a Key Tool
Trump has repeatedly argued that India’s purchase of cheap Russian crude strengthens Moscow. He has cited this as justification for sharply higher duties on Indian exports to the US.
At the same time, he indicated that India understood his concerns and tried to manage the relationship carefully. Despite friendly personal ties between Trump and Modi, the dispute over tariffs and Russian oil remains unresolved and continues to influence US-India trade relations.