Trump Says India Halted Russian Oil Imports as Trade Deal Nears
WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 12, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump announced that India has largely stopped importing oil from Russia, signaling a potential breakthrough in long-stalled trade talks between Washington and New Delhi. The remarks, made during a White House event, come as the U.S. Supreme Court begins hearings on the legality of Trump-era tariffs.
Trump said the United States and India are “very close to reaching a trade agreement,” and promised a reduction in tariffs once final terms are settled. He added that the original 25 percent tariff on Indian goods was imposed because India continued buying Russian oil despite Western sanctions.
Trump Links Tariff Rollback to India’s Energy Decisions
“India has made significant progress in realigning its energy purchases,” Trump said, suggesting that New Delhi’s reduced dependence on Russian crude has paved the way for renewed economic cooperation.
Trade analysts noted that any tariff rollback would strengthen U.S.–India supply-chain partnerships, especially in clean energy, semiconductors, and defense. However, they also warned that Trump’s comments could complicate ongoing geopolitical balancing efforts between India, Russia, and the West.
Supreme Court Examines Presidential Tariff Powers
Trump’s statement coincided with a Supreme Court hearing examining whether the president has the authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
The case could have major implications for executive power in trade policy. Several lower courts previously questioned whether the IEEPA grants the White House such broad economic control, particularly when tariffs are imposed unilaterally without congressional approval.
Possible Impact on Global Trade and U.S.–India Relations
If the Supreme Court rules against the administration, the tariffs imposed since 2023 could be invalidated, reshaping global trade flows and reopening tariff disputes with major partners.
A reversal would also affect India’s ongoing efforts to secure market access for pharmaceuticals, textiles, and digital services in the U.S., while offering Washington more leverage in negotiating intellectual-property and data-sharing clauses.
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India’s Initial Reaction to Trump’s Remarks
Officials in New Delhi reacted cautiously to Trump’s comments, emphasizing that India maintains a diversified energy policy guided by national interests. Sources within the Ministry of External Affairs said India remains committed to balancing its energy security needs with global market realities.
While India has reportedly reduced purchases of discounted Russian crude, analysts note that energy diversification, rather than political alignment, is driving its recent import trends.
Experts Call for Pragmatic Negotiations
Trade experts believe both nations have an opportunity to reset economic ties. “If India can secure meaningful tariff relief while preserving strategic autonomy, it’s a win-win,” said Victor Dasgupta, senior trade correspondent at the Economic Times.
However, he cautioned that linking trade policy to foreign-energy choices could set a risky precedent for future negotiations. “Energy security and trade liberalization must be treated separately to maintain economic stability,” he said.
Looking Ahead: Tariffs, Energy, and Strategic Balance
The Supreme Court’s ruling—expected by early 2026—will determine whether Trump’s tariff authority under the IEEPA can stand. A decision against the White House could trigger new trade frameworks and force revisions in U.S.-India economic relations.
As both countries edge closer to a deal, diplomats stress the importance of sustaining momentum without politicizing energy cooperation. “The partnership between India and the United States remains vital,” one senior official said. “It must be built on trust, not tariffs.”
