Trump Slashes India Tariffs to 18% After Oil Deal, Ties It to Ending Ukraine War

The United States and India have shared a long trade relationship shaped by tariffs and energy ties, but tensions grew after Russia’s February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. India turned to discounted Russian oil, prompting U.S. pressure. In June, President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, then added another 25% in August over continued Russian oil purchases, pushing the total to 50%. On Monday, Trump said tariffs on Indian goods would drop to 18% after Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. Trump said India would cut import taxes on U.S. goods to zero and buy $500 billion in American products, calling the move vital to ending the Ukraine war. Modi welcomed the decision, praising Trump’s leadership and partnership.