US labels India the ‘Maharaja of Tariffs,’ criticizes Russian oil import

The United States has once again criticized India, branding it the “Maharaja of Tariffs.” Peter Navarro, trade advisor to US President Donald Trump, accused New Delhi of engaging in a “profitable trade game” by continuing to import Russian oil despite international pressure.

Navarro confirmed that a 50% tariff on Indian goods will come into effect next week. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, he said, “I see this taking effect,” when asked if the 25% punitive tariff on India would start on August 27.

Navarro said India’s imports of Russian oil have surged from practically zero before February 2022 to 35% today. “India doesn’t really need this oil. This is a kind of refining profit-sharing game—a form of money laundering for the Kremlin,” he claimed.

His criticism comes as India has made it clear that it will continue buying Russian oil. Despite the new tariffs, India has emphasized its close ties with Moscow and has recently sought to improve relations with regional rival China.

During a recent visit to Moscow, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed surprise at US threats, noting that Washington had previously encouraged New Delhi to buy Russian oil to stabilize global energy markets. “For years, the US itself has told us to do everything to stabilize the global energy market—even buy Russian oil,” he said.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, India has significantly increased its Russian oil imports. The G7 had imposed a price cap of \$60 per barrel on Russian crude. The US administration argues that India’s purchases support Russia’s war effort, prompting the 50% tariff—the highest imposed on any country in recent times.

Navarro rejected India’s claim that Russian oil is essential for its energy needs. He said, “India is not working for peace; rather, it is prolonging the war.” He also accused India of buying Russian oil cheaply, refining it, and selling it at higher prices across Europe, Africa, and Asia, calling it “profiteering by the Indian refining industry.”

According to Moscow-based Kasatkin Consulting, 37% of Russia’s total oil exports now go to India. Navarro added that India’s trade practices, including high non-tariff barriers and massive trade deficits, are harming American workers and businesses.

He further alleged that India is strengthening ties with Chinese President Xi Jinping, adding another dimension to US concerns.

Trump had previously doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, including an extra 25% due to Russian oil purchases. This move has escalated tensions between Washington and New Delhi, despite India being the world’s largest importer of Russian oil.

India’s imports of Russian oil have risen dramatically—from 1.7% of total oil imports in 2019–20 to 35.1% in 2024–25—making India the biggest buyer of Russian crude today.