Former US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50% tariffs on Indian imports, warning that the move threatens the vital US-India relationship. Speaking to CNBC International, Campbell described the US-India partnership as “America’s most important relationship in the 21st century” for technology, education, and military cooperation, cautioning that Trump’s actions put this at risk.

The tariffs, doubled from 25% to 50% over India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, have drawn bipartisan backlash in the US. Campbell condemned Trump’s rhetoric toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “The way President Trump has spoken about India and PM Modi has put the Indian government in a difficult position.” He advised Modi against yielding to US pressure, warning that pushing India to cut ties with Russia could backfire, as “Indian strategists are going to do the exact opposite.”

The US State Department, acknowledging India as a “strategic partner,” emphasized ongoing “full and frank dialogue” amid rising tensions. However, Trump’s refusal to negotiate trade until the tariff dispute is resolved has escalated the strain, halting progress on a bilateral trade agreement.

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