Trade tensions between the U.S. and India are mounting, and Russia has stepped in to defend New Delhi. The Kremlin has publicly backed India, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that “sovereign countries” have the right to decide their own trade partners. Peskov called U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats “illegal” and “unacceptable.” Trump had accused India of profiting from the resale of Russian oil in a social media post and threatened to “substantially” increase tariffs on Indian goods, following an earlier 25% tariff on August 1.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has also responded forcefully, calling the targeting of India “unjustified and unreasonable.” The government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its “national interests and economic security.”
This diplomatic fallout highlights a growing rift over global energy trade and geopolitical alignments. Russia is positioning itself as a defender of national sovereignty, while the U.S. is using economic pressure to align countries with its foreign policy goals. The situation pits two of the world’s largest economies against each other, with Moscow siding with New Delhi.
The unfolding events highlight the complexities of navigating a multipolar world. India’s refusal to bow to U.S. pressure demonstrates a growing assertiveness among nations to pursue their own strategic interests. The Kremlin’s support not only reinforces its strategic partnership with India but also sends a clear message that it will stand by countries that defy U.S. economic coercion.