Trump Criticizes India-Russia Says U.S. Does ‘Very Little’ Business With India, ‘Almost None’ With Russia
WASHINGTON, July 31, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred fresh controversy with his remarks on global trade, stating that the United States conducts “very little business” with India and “almost none” with Russia, while criticizing their growing economic ties.
In a Truth Social post on Thursday, Trump stated, “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care.” His comments come just days after the U.S. announced a 25% tariff on goods imported from India, effective Friday.
India-Russia Trade Under Fire
The remarks signal increasing frustration from Trump over India’s long-standing trade relationship with Russia, especially in defense and energy sectors. Trump reiterated that India has historically sourced “the vast majority” of its military hardware and energy supplies from Russia — a practice he labeled as “not good.”
The comments sparked concern in New Delhi. In a brief response, the Indian government said it is closely reviewing the trade implications of the tariff decision and reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing a fair and balanced trade deal with the U.S.
A New Tariff War Brewing?
Wednesday’s earlier post from Trump had already sent shockwaves through Indian markets. The announcement of new tariffs targeting Indian exports comes amid already strained relations over trade and military alliances. Trump’s new policy could potentially impact billions in Indian goods, including pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electronics, which are major export sectors.
India currently enjoys a trade surplus with the U.S., and any disruption could have significant consequences for small- and medium-sized exporters.
READ MORE: EU Accepts 15% US Tariff in Landmark Trade Deal to Avert Trade War
Minimal U.S.-Russia Trade
Trump also dismissed concerns about Russia’s global trade footprint, emphasizing that the U.S. does “almost no business” with Russia. These remarks reflect the ongoing chill in U.S.-Russia economic relations, which have been limited due to sanctions, especially following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Global Reaction and Impact
While Trump’s administration has often adopted a protectionist stance, the latest moves indicate a deeper geopolitical shift as Washington becomes increasingly critical of India’s non-aligned approach in global affairs — particularly with regard to its close defense ties with Russia.
Analysts believe the move may further complicate India’s attempt to balance its strategic autonomy with growing economic and security partnerships with the U.S.
Meanwhile, India continues to deepen cooperation with BRICS nations and Russia, despite mounting Western pressure.
