‘Illegal’ Demands: Kremlin Backs India Against Trump

Russia has thrown its weight behind India, with the Kremlin calling US President Donald Trump’s threats of revised tariffs “illegal” demands. On Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that “we do not consider such statements to be legal,” and that countries have a sovereign right to choose their own trade partners.
The Russian response directly addressed Trump’s warning to India, where he vowed to “substantially raising the Tariff” due to its continued purchases of Russian oil. Trump’s post on social media accused India of profiting from the oil trade and disregarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These new threats come after the US had already levied a 25% tariff on Indian goods.
India’s government, in turn, has not backed down. A “strong-worded statement” from the Ministry of External Affairs labeled the US and EU’s targeting of India as “unjustified and unreasonable.” New Delhi emphasized its commitment to protecting its national interests and economic security, indicating that it will not be swayed by external pressure.
This diplomatic confrontation highlights the growing challenges to a unipolar global order. Russia’s support for India underscores the strengthening ties between the two nations and their shared interest in resisting what they see as US overreach. Both Moscow and New Delhi are asserting their right to an independent foreign policy.