Bessent Plans Tariff Hike on India Over Russian Oil Purchases

US Treasury Secretary Jane Bessent said she intends to raise tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s continued purchases of discounted Russian oil, according to remarks broadcast by CNBC. Bessent did not specify the size or timing of the proposed increase but framed the move as part of Washington’s broader effort to pressure governments that help finance Moscow’s war effort by buying its energy. The measure would add India to a widening roster of countries facing higher US trade barriers after the Biden administration’s 145% levy on Chinese goods took effect in April. Indian officials have not yet commented on Bessent’s statement. New Delhi has repeatedly defended its Russian oil purchases as essential for its energy security, arguing they do not violate Western sanctions. Any tariff escalation could complicate US-India economic ties, which both sides have sought to deepen through technology and defense agreements.