US President Donald Trump renewed his threat on Monday to raise tariffs on Indian goods over its purchase of Russian oil. Meanwhile, New Delhi called Trump's attack "unprovoked" and vowed to protect its economic interests, deepening a trade rift between the two countries.

In a social media post, Trump wrote, "Not only does India buy large quantities of Russian oil, but they also sell most of that purchased oil on the open market for huge profits. They don't care how many people in Ukraine are killed by the Russian war machine."

"Therefore, I will substantially increase the tariffs India pays the United States," he added. An Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson responded by saying that India would "take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and economic security."

"India's targeting is unwarranted and unreasonable," the spokesperson added. Trump said that starting Friday, he would impose new sanctions on Russia and countries that buy its energy exports unless Moscow takes steps to end its 3.5-year war with Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no public signs of changing his stance despite the approaching deadline.

Over the weekend, two Indian government sources told Reuters that India would continue to buy oil from Russia despite Trump's threats.

India has faced pressure from the West to distance itself from Moscow since Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022. New Delhi has resisted, citing its long-standing relationship with Russia and economic needs.

In July, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Indian imports, and US officials have cited various geopolitical issues as standing in the way of a US-India trade agreement. Trump has also portrayed the broader BRICS group of developing nations as hostile to the United States. The countries have dismissed his accusations, saying the group promotes the interests of its members and developing countries in general. (alg)

Source: Reuters