Washington, January 5: US President Donald Trump praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a “very good person” while issuing a fresh warning over India’s Russian oil imports. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “If India does not help on the Russian oil issue, we could raise tariffs quickly.” He claimed India has already reduced its Russian oil purchases but stressed that Washington expects more cooperation.
Trump said Modi and Indian officials “know I am not happy” and are trying to satisfy the US. He added, “They trade with us, and we can impose tariffs very fast if needed.” The warning comes amid rising scrutiny in Washington of India’s energy trade with Russia, weeks after Modi and Trump spoke over the phone. The leaders had stressed maintaining momentum in bilateral trade despite tariff-related tensions.
Earlier, trade talks between US and Indian officials faced disruptions after Washington imposed 50% tariffs on certain Indian imports. The Air Force One remarks coincide with efforts to resolve these longstanding trade issues. Recently, the US Embassy in India highlighted Trump’s appreciation for Modi, calling India “a wonderful country” and Modi “a great friend.”
