Nikki Haley to India: Take Trump's Oil Warning Seriously

DEEPANSHU SHARMA

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The Republican leader calls for dialogue to strengthen US–India ties against China

Nikki Haley stressed the US needs India to counter China, urging New Delhi to consider Trump’s concerns on Russian crude imports

She emphasized immediate dialogue, saying tough issues like tariffs and energy imports require frank discussions but should not overshadow shared goals

India faces up to 50% US tariffs on some goods. Currently, 25% is active, with another 25% set for August 27

These tariffs directly connect to India’s growing purchases of Russian oil, even as other large importers like China face no such penalties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended India’s energy choices, saying the country will always make decisions serving its national interest

Jaishankar said India will stay independent, pointing out that China, the world’s top oil buyer, is not punished for its Russian purchases

Haley reminded both nations that to counter China effectively, Washington must keep India as a strategic partner, despite disagreements on trade and oil

As tariffs loom and Russian oil imports rise, dialogue between Washington and New Delhi remains key to preserving cooperation and strategic balance