Why did Donald Trump single out India for buying Russian oil? US President says 'going to see lot more'

Trump was asked why India was being specifically targeted for additional sanctions while other major buyers of Russian oil, such as China, have not faced the same penalties.

“It’s only been eight hours,” Trump responded. “So let’s see what happens. You’re going to see a lot more. You’re going to see so much secondary sanctions.”

When pressed on the possibility of sanctions against other nations, the president said, “It may happen. I don't know, I can't tell you yet. But we did it with India. We are doing it probably with a couple of others, one of them could be China.”

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order titled “Addressing Threats to the US by the Government of the Russian Federation”, raising tariffs on Indian goods by 25 percentage points, effectively doubling the current levy to 50%.

The White House said the increased tariffs are a direct response to India’s ongoing energy trade with Russia, which Washington views as undermining global sanctions against the Kremlin following its war in Ukraine.

When will additional 25% tariff come into effect?

While the initial duty becomes effective on August 7, the additional levy for buying Russian oil will come into effect after 21 days or August 27.

The new duties are expected to hit Indian exports in key sectors such as textiles, marine products, and leather goods.

“The ad valorem duty imposed... shall be in addition to any other duties, fees, taxes, exactions, and charges applicable to such imports,” the order stated.

While other nations, including China and Turkey have faced tariffs, the effective rate on Indian goods is now the highest globally, tied only with Brazil at 50%. Competitors such as Myanmar (40%), Bangladesh (35%), and Vietnam (20%) now enjoy a significant price advantage in the US market.

India condemned the tariff actions as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable".

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India’s energy imports are determined by market dynamics and guided by the overriding goal of ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens.

“It is therefore extremely unfortunate that the US should choose to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that several other countries are also taking in their own national interest.”

The ministry said that India would “take all actions necessary to protect its national interests.”