External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has hit out at the United States over its decision to impose steep tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil, bluntly stating that “nobody is forcing anyone to buy from India.” His comments came during the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, where he defended India’s energy choices and strategic autonomy amid escalating tensions with Washington.
Jaishankar’s Sharp Response to US Pressure
The minister’s remarks followed US President Donald Trump’s imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods, which included an additional 25% penalty specifically linked to New Delhi’s increased imports of Russian oil.
Taking a firm stance, Jaishankar said, “It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other people of doing business. If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don’t buy it. Nobody forces you to buy it. Europe buys, America buys so if you don’t like it, don’t buy it.”
Jaishankar dismissed the idea that India’s trade partners could dictate its oil policy, stressing that New Delhi would continue to act in line with its own energy security and national interest.
On Trade, Farmers, and Strategic Autonomy
Beyond oil, Jaishankar underlined the government’s priorities in trade and agriculture, making it clear that Indian farmers’ interests remain non-negotiable.
“When it comes to trade, the interests of farmers, when it comes to our strategic autonomy, when it comes to opposition to mediation, this government is very clear,” he said. “If anybody disagrees with us, please tell the people of India that you are not prepared to defend the interests of farmers. Please tell the people of India you don’t value strategic autonomy. We do, and we will do whatever we have to do to maintain it.”
His remarks came after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused India of “profiteering” from cheap Russian oil during the Ukraine war. According to Bessent, Russian oil now accounts for 42% of India’s total oil imports, up from less than 1% before the conflict began. China, the world’s largest purchaser of Russian oil, increased its share only modestly from 13% to 16%.
Critics in New Delhi argue that Washington’s actions unfairly single out India, while leaving China untouched despite being a far larger consumer of Russian crude.
Trump’s Tariffs and Diplomatic Strain
The steep US tariffs have triggered visible strain in US-India relations. While President Donald Trump has justified the tariffs as a response to India’s energy choices, he has refrained from applying similar measures on Beijing.
India described the move as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”, with the Ministry of External Affairs vowing to take all necessary actions to safeguard national interests. Officials emphasized that several other countries continue to import Russian oil without being subjected to similar punitive measures.
The tariff announcement was followed by the abrupt cancellation of a scheduled visit by US trade negotiators to New Delhi, further fueling speculation of a widening rift between the two nations.
India’s Firm Stand on Mediation with Pakistan
In his address, Jaishankar also dismissed President Donald Trump’s earlier claim of having brokered a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. He reiterated India’s longstanding position that no third-party mediation will be accepted in matters concerning its neighbour.
“There is a national consensus in India mediation on matters with Pakistan is not acceptable,” Jaishankar said firmly, aligning his comments with New Delhi’s traditional stance of bilateral engagement only.
India Will Defend Its Interests
Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar made it clear that India’s policies on trade, energy, and diplomacy will remain rooted in sovereignty and strategic autonomy.
“India will not compromise on defending the interests of its farmers, its economy, or its independence of decision-making. If others disagree, they are free to make their choices but India will always make its own,” he said.
As Washington and New Delhi grapple with a new phase of strain in their relationship, Jaishankar’s message was unequivocal: India will not bow to external pressure, even from its closest partners, when it comes to protecting its national interest.
