President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on goods imported from India.
This new tariff is a penalty for India's continued purchase of Russian oil. The order states that India's direct or indirect importation of Russian oil undermines U.S. efforts to counter Russia's actions in Ukraine.
This new tariff is in addition to a previous 25% tariff announced last week, bringing the total tariff on some Indian goods to 50%. The new duty will take effect 21 days after the order was signed, with exemptions for goods already in transit.
The White House stated that by imposing the new tariff, President Trump aims to deter countries from supporting Russia's economy and to pressure Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine.
Indian officials have defended their country's actions, stating that their energy trade with Russia is a matter of national interest and economic security.
They have also pointed out that other countries, including some in Europe, continue to trade with Russia.