US uses tariffs on India to push Moscow amid Ukraine war

US Vice President JD Vance defended President Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on Indian imports, saying it aimed to choke Russia’s oil revenues and push for peace in Ukraine. While Vance voiced hope for progress in talks, India rejected Washington’s pressure, citing national energy needs and unequal treatment compared to Europe and China.

Washington’s relations with New Delhi have come under renewed strain after President Donald Trump imposed steep tariffs on Indian goods. US Vice President JD Vance confirmed that the decision was designed to build “aggressive economic leverage” aimed at weakening Russia’s oil revenues and forcing Moscow toward ending its war on Ukraine.

Speaking to NBC News, Vance said the administration believed tariffs on India would make it harder for Russia to profit from its crude oil exports, which remain a key source of war funding. India, one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian oil, has repeatedly defended its purchases, saying its energy policy is driven by national interests.

Trump recently announced a 50 per cent tariff on Indian imports, along with an additional 25 per cent penalty for continuing energy trade with Moscow. The move has fueled tensions between the two democracies, which have otherwise deepened defense and technology ties in recent years.

Despite the friction, Vance expressed optimism about potential progress in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. He suggested that both sides had made concessions in recent weeks and hinted that Moscow could be welcomed back into the global economy if it agreed to end hostilities.

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New Delhi, however, has pushed back against Washington’s pressure, arguing that singling out India is unfair, especially when other major economies such as China and European nations continue to import large quantities of Russian oil and gas. Analysts warn that the tariff dispute risks complicating strategic cooperation between the United States and India, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, where Washington sees New Delhi as a critical partner.

The US insists that economic measures remain its strongest tool to squeeze Russia, even if it means straining ties with long-standing allies.