Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has cautioned President Donald Trump against damaging the United States’ relationship with India, following his threat to impose steep tariffs on Indian goods over its continued imports of Russian oil.
In a post on social media platform X, Haley said, “India should not be buying oil from Russia. But China, an adversary and the number one buyer of Russian and Iranian oil, got a 90-day tariff pause. Don’t give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India.”
Her remarks come as President Trump prepares to implement significant new tariffs on Indian exports, accusing New Delhi of aiding Russia’s war effort by purchasing discounted crude oil. Trump also pointed to India’s high tariffs on American goods, which he described as unfair and a justification for reciprocal trade penalties.
Haley, a prominent Republican voice on foreign policy, argued that punishing India while extending leniency to China sends mixed signals. She stressed the importance of maintaining a strong alliance with India, especially amid growing global tensions and China’s increasing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The former envoy’s criticism reflects broader concerns within the U.S. strategic community over alienating key democratic partners. Several analysts have echoed her sentiment, warning that Washington must balance its trade policy with long-term geopolitical interests.
Meanwhile, India has defended its energy trade with Russia, citing the need to secure affordable energy supplies and contain inflation. Indian officials also highlighted that Western nations, including the U.S. and European Union, continue to engage in significant trade with Russia, particularly in energy and critical materials.
