WASHINGTON – The United States has warned that it may impose additional secondary tariffs on India if the upcoming peace talks between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska fail to produce a resolution. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Washington is prepared to escalate sanctions should the negotiations not yield positive results.
Currently, Indian imports face a 50 percent tariff—comprising a 25 percent reciprocal tariff and an additional 25 percent penalty linked to India’s continued imports of Russian oil and military equipment. Bessent indicated that further measures could be implemented depending on the outcome of the high-level meeting.
India has condemned the existing tariffs as “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable,” insisting that its oil purchases from Russia are necessary to safeguard national energy security.
Analysts warn that additional U.S. sanctions could have significant economic consequences for India, potentially affecting key export sectors such as garments, pharmaceuticals, gems, and petrochemicals. These industries collectively represent billions in trade and a notable share of India’s GDP.
Observers also caution that prolonged tensions could strain diplomatic relations between Washington and New Delhi, undermining cooperation in strategic and economic spheres.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.