“If you don’t keep me happy, I will raise import duties further” : Trump

US President Donald Trump threatens India once again

Washington (USA) – “Narendra Modi is a good person. He knows that the President of the United States is not happy. It is necessary to keep me happy. If India continues trading oil with Russia, we will immediately increase import duties,” US President Donald Trump once again threatened India.

At present, a 50% import duty is being levied on Indian goods entering the United States. Trump claimed that “India’s purchase of oil from Russia provides Russia with financial strength to continue its war against Ukraine.”

Another Threat from Donald Trump – And Another Reality Check

“If you don’t help me with Russian Oil, I’ll raise import duties further!”

Even after imposing 50% import duties, India didn’t crumble. 📈

Instead, India’s growth held firm and imports increased.
India does not bend… pic.twitter.com/La833isxbR

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) January 5, 2026

Part of a pressure strategy

Currently, negotiations are underway between India and the United States regarding a trade agreement. Trump’s latest threat appears to be part of a broader pressure tactic. In November 2025, India’s oil imports from Russia reached their highest level in terms of both volume and value. India’s purchase of Russian oil has increased to 35%.

India has maintained a neutral stance. It is not dependent solely on Russian oil; India has also increased oil purchases from the United States.

Editorial Perspectives

• Despite having already imposed a 50% import duty on India, the move has not caused any significant harm to India. On the contrary, India’s growth rate has increased and imports have risen. Trump should understand that India will not be intimidated by such threats.
• Someone should remind Trump that India is not Venezuela !