Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Sep 26: NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has claimed that US President Donald Trump’s tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian oil are having a significant impact on Moscow. He stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly contacted Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking clarification on Russia’s strategy in Ukraine in light of the tariffs.

Speaking to CNN on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Rutte said, “This immediately impacts Russia because that means Delhi is now on the phone with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, and Narendra Modi is asking him, ‘I support you, but could you explain your strategy because I have now been hit by these 50% tariffs by the United States.’” There has been no immediate reaction from New Delhi or Moscow regarding these remarks.

Last month, President Trump imposed a 25 percent reciprocal tariff on Indian goods and an additional 25 percent penalty for India purchasing Russian oil, accusing India of indirectly supporting Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. Modi and Putin last spoke on September 17, PM Modi’s 75th birthday, reiterating India’s “full support for the peaceful resolution” of the Ukraine conflict. Earlier, on September 1, the leaders held a bilateral discussion after the SCO Summit in Tianjin, China.

Trump has also urged NATO countries to impose tariffs on China and stop buying Russian oil to strengthen the coalition against Moscow. Rutte agreed, emphasizing that NATO nations should halt purchasing Russian oil.

Meanwhile, a delegation led by Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held trade talks with US officials in New York, including India’s chief negotiator Rajesh Agrawal. These discussions followed day-long negotiations in Delhi between US Chief Negotiator Brendan Lynch and Agrawal on a proposed bilateral trade agreement.

President Trump expressed optimism about upcoming talks with PM Modi, calling him a “very good friend,” while Modi described the discussions as a step toward unlocking the “limitless potential of the India-US partnership.” The developments underscore the delicate balance India faces in navigating relations with both Russia and the United States amid increasing global pressures.