Trump's 50% Tariff Sparks Sharp Decline in US-India Relations

The US has imposed a 50% tariff on India—its highest yet—due to India’s continued import of Russian oil, marking a sharp downturn in US-India relations. Experts say President Trump favors onshoring over friend-shoring, with New Delhi calling the move unfair. The surprise tariff comes amid stalled trade talks, despite India offering concessions on industrial goods and defense purchases. However, it refused to ease restrictions on sensitive farm sectors. The tariff adds to India's foreign policy challenges, as it balances ties with both the US and Russia. The decision also raises uncertainty for businesses, undermining India’s ambitions as a global manufacturing hub.