Donald Trump’s Indian-American Republican Associate and former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has urged India to immediately ban Russian oil imports. He said in a statement on Sunday that India should find a solution with the White House on this issue. According to Haley, decades of friendship between the two countries provides a solid basis for dealing with issues such as existing business tensions and Russian oil imports.
Haley’s statement came at a time when tension in India and America has increased tension in recent weeks. The Trump administration has imposed secondary tariffs on India to buy Russian oil. In addition, India also rejected the alleged role of America’s mediation in the ongoing struggle with Pakistan, which deepened the differences between the two countries.
Currently, American tariffs on Indian exports are above 50 percent, the highest after Brazil. India has strongly condemned this ‘unfair, inappropriate and indispensable’ step, as it is expected to have negative impact on important areas such as textile and sea exports. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also issued a strict message and clarified that India would not compromise the interests of its farmers and fishermen, even if it has to be paid.
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What about China?
In an article by his X (East Twitter) post and newsweek, Nikki Haley stressed that despite these differences, both countries should not divert attention from their shared goals. According to him, America needs a strong friend like India to face China.
Haley warned that the relationship between Washington and New Delhi is on the verge of breaking up and it is very important to bring them back on track. He also said that India should not be considered an opponent like China. He advised the Trump administration not to allow America’s role in tariff issues or the role of America in the India-Pakistan ceasefire.
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Why is oil important for India from Russia?
After the Russia-Ukraine War, the restrictions on Russia increased oil prices in the global market. Russia offered oil to countries like India at low prices, which became an attractive option to meet India’s growing energy needs. India took advantage of the opportunity, which helped them to keep their economy stable. However, this step has become a matter of concern for the US and other Western countries, which want to economically weaken Russia. This situation has become a diplomatic challenge for India, where it has to balance between its energy security and strategic partnership.