Trade negotiations between India and the United States remain ongoing despite escalating tensions over India's continued purchase of Russian crude oil. Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirmed at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025 that talks have not ceased, emphasizing that India has established red lines to protect the interests of its farmers and small producers. The United States, under President Donald Trump's administration, has threatened to double tariffs on Indian exports to 50%, including a 25% penalty specifically linked to India's oil imports from Russia. India has criticized these tariff hikes as unfair and unjustified, with its envoy to Russia reiterating that India will continue to seek oil from the best available sources regardless of U.S. objections. The tariff escalation has raised strategic concerns within the U.S., with former U.S. Ambassador Nikki Haley warning that the tariffs could undermine decades of progress with India, a key democratic ally, and potentially damage bilateral relations. Additionally, Indian pharmaceutical firms currently remain exempt from U.S. tariffs, though new levies of up to 250% are reportedly under consideration. Analysts attribute the U.S. tariff measures to stalled trade negotiations and frustration over India's defense and energy ties with Russia. Despite the strain, both sides maintain that negotiations are ongoing, with India committed to defending its economic and strategic interests amid the looming tariff impositions.