Energy expert Dr. Anas Al Hajji has criticized the Trump administration’s decision to impose steep tariffs on India over its purchases of Russian oil. He argued that the U.S. is being unfair, since countries like Turkey, China, and even members of the European Union import far more Russian energy without facing the same accusations.
Al Hajji noted that Turkey imports large amounts of natural gas and petroleum products from Russia and even exports them to Europe, but no one blames Turkey for supporting the war. The same is true for China. Even in the EU, about 12% of gas imports last month came from Russia. “If that’s acceptable for them, why punish India?” he asked.
He believes the 50% tariff, with 25% linked to crude oil imports, is less about Russia and more about controlling access to India’s huge market.
Al Hajji also highlighted U.S. political influence on Ukraine’s war strategy. He said Washington had pressured Ukraine not to attack Russian crude facilities before elections, fearing higher oil prices. Now, with weaker demand, Ukraine has targeted export hubs with U.S. approval.
He dismissed the idea that cutting Russia’s oil revenues will end the war, calling it unrealistic given Russia’s history of enduring price crashes.
