U.S. Officials Criticize India’s Russian Oil Imports, Tariff Threats Loom

Senior U.S. officials, including former White House adviser Stephen Miller, have voiced sharp criticism of India for continuing to import Russian oil amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The officials accused New Delhi of indirectly financing Russia’s military operations by maintaining energy trade ties with Moscow.

Miller and others warned that India's actions are undermining Western sanctions and international pressure on the Kremlin. In response, they reiterated the possibility of escalating tariffs on Indian goods as a form of economic leverage, signaling growing tensions between the two strategic partners.

The criticism comes at a time when Washington is seeking broader global compliance with its efforts to isolate Russia economically. India, however, has defended its oil purchases as essential for national energy security, arguing that it remains committed to a balanced foreign policy.

Author: Global Ripple

Posted on: August 03, 2025