US Secretary of State Marco Rubio labeled India’s purchase of Russian oil a “point of irritation” in US-India relations, accusing New Delhi of sustaining Russia’s war in Ukraine. Speaking on Fox Radio, Rubio addressed President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of a 25% tariff on Indian goods, effective August 7, plus an unspecified penalty for India’s reliance on Russian energy and military equipment.

“India is an ally, but we don’t align 100%,” Rubio said, noting India’s energy needs drive its purchase of discounted Russian oil, which he claims funds Moscow’s war efforts. He expressed frustration that India opts for Russian suppliers despite other oil vendors, though he acknowledged broader US-India cooperation.

Trump, via Truth Social, justified the tariffs, citing India’s high trade barriers, extensive Russian arms purchases, and energy deals, which he called detrimental amid global calls to halt Russia’s actions in Ukraine. India’s Ministry of Commerce responded, affirming its commitment to a fair bilateral trade agreement and pledging to protect national interests, including farmers and MSMEs, as it studies the tariffs’ impact.

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The move underscores tensions in US-India ties, with trade negotiations ongoing and India’s strategic choices under scrutiny.

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