Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, Aug 8: A major diplomatic row is brewing after US President Donald Trump slapped 50 per cent tariffs on Indian imports, citing New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian crude oil. The move has triggered strong criticism across America's political spectrum and raised alarm over the future of US-India relations.
Kurt Campbell, former US Deputy Secretary of State and a prominent foreign policy expert, warned that the decision could severely damage what he described as "America's most important relationship in the 21st century."
Speaking to CNBC International, Campbell said, "The way President Trump has spoken about India and Prime Minister Modi has put the Indian government in a difficult position. Much of the US-India relationship is now at risk."
He cautioned against forcing New Delhi to alter its strategic partnerships, particularly with Russia. “If you tell India that it has to sacrifice its relationship with Russia, then Indian strategists are going to do the exact opposite,” he said, noting that pressure tactics could backfire.
Urging India to stand its ground, Campbell added, "Prime Minister Modi should not bend the knee to President Trump."
The US State Department, attempting to de-escalate tensions, issued a statement on Thursday reaffirming that “India is a strategic partner,” and that the US is engaging in “full and frank dialogue” with New Delhi amid the ongoing tariff dispute.
Earlier in the day, President Trump doubled down on his stance, declaring there would be no trade talks with India until the tariff issue is resolved. “We will not negotiate under pressure,” Trump told reporters, following his administration’s move to double tariffs on key Indian goods.
The development marks a sharp downturn in bilateral relations that had otherwise grown stronger in recent years, especially in areas of defence, education, and technology cooperation. With mounting tensions and no clear off-ramp in sight, diplomatic observers fear the world's two largest democracies could be heading for a protracted standoff.