US President Donald Trump commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as a “good man” for reducing the procurement of Russian oil. Trump, speaking on Air Force One, mentioned that New Delhi altered its stance after recognizing US disapproval of ongoing Russian energy imports. Senator Lindsey Graham highlighted the impact of US tariffs in prompting India to significantly decrease its Russian oil acquisitions, thereby affecting Moscow’s capabilities in Ukraine.
Graham credited Trump’s 25% tariff on India for the decline in Russian oil purchases, emphasizing the tangible outcomes of this measure. Trump emphasized the potential for swift tariff escalation if countries reverse their decisions, underscoring US trade leverage. Graham advocated for legislation granting the President broad authority to impose tariffs on nations supporting Russia through discounted energy purchases.
The proposed bill, with 85 co-sponsors, would empower the President to levy tariffs ranging from zero to 500%, solely at his discretion. Graham cited instances where this strategy had already proven effective, particularly in reducing India’s reliance on Russian oil. Trump contrasted his administration’s approach with that of Biden, criticizing the latter for providing substantial aid to Ukraine without receiving compensation.
