US President Donald Trump on Sunday warned that the United States could impose higher tariffs on India if the country does not curb its purchases of Russian oil. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said tariffs could be increased “very quickly” if India fails to meet Washington’s demands.
Read More: India seeks weekly data on Russian oil imports amid US trade talks
“Modi is a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy,” Trump added, referring to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US doubled import tariffs on Indian goods to 50 per cent last year in response to New Delhi’s continued Russian oil imports.
#WATCH | On India’s Russian oil imports, US President Donald J Trump says, “… They wanted to make me happy, basically… PM Modi’s a very good man. He’s a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy. They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very… pic.twitter.com/OxOoj69sx3
— ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2026
Despite the steep tariffs, India’s exports to the United States rose in November, reflecting the resilience of trade ties. Indian officials have maintained a firm stance against US trade demands, showing limited flexibility on issues such as agricultural imports while gradually reducing Russian oil purchases.
Recent reports indicate that India is asking refiners to disclose weekly volumes of Russian and US oil imports. Analysts suggest that Russian crude imports are expected to fall below 1 million barrels per day as India seeks to negotiate a trade agreement with Washington.
Trump’s warning comes amid ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi has spoken to Trump at least three times since the tariffs were imposed, but discussions have yet to produce a breakthrough.
Read More: India defies sanctions with strong Russian oil imports
In December, India’s Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal met US Deputy Trade Representative Rick Switzer in Delhi to discuss bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The talks highlighted both sides’ interest in resolving trade tensions while addressing strategic concerns over oil supply and energy security.
As the US pressures India to reduce Russian oil purchases, the possibility of escalating tariffs adds urgency to negotiations. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for global trade and energy markets in the coming months.