US Pushes Europe to Target India as US failed to pressurise India
The United States has intensified its economic pressure on India by urging European countries to adopt sanctions against New Delhi, sources told India Today. This comes just days after Washington imposed a steep 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
According to the report, the White House wants European nations to halt oil and gas imports from India and introduce secondary tariffs. This strategy, officials suggest, mirrors earlier warnings the U.S. had issued to New Delhi over its oil trade with Moscow.
The proposal marks a significant escalation in Washington’s approach, as President Donald Trump seeks broader international backing to curb India’s economic ties. The move, however, risks straining relations not just between the U.S. and India but also across the Atlantic.
Anti-US Sentiment Rising in India
The trade conflict has sparked a strong reaction across India. Many see the tariffs as some of the harshest economic measures the U.S. has ever imposed on a partner nation. Public opinion reflects frustration and anger, with growing calls to resist American pressure.
Critics argue that Washington is unfairly punishing India for maintaining an independent foreign policy. Indian businesses, particularly exporters, have raised concerns that the sudden tariffs will disrupt markets and raise costs for consumers.
Political observers warn that this mounting discontent could reshape the tone of U.S.-India relations for years to come.
Modi Calls for ‘Swadeshi’ Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has responded by urging Indians to embrace “swadeshi” — locally produced goods. Addressing the nation, he encouraged citizens to strengthen domestic industries as a way of countering foreign pressure.
Taking an indirect swipe at President Trump, Modi remarked that a “politics of economic selfishness” is spreading worldwide, with countries prioritizing their own interests at the expense of cooperation.
The Prime Minister’s statement is being seen as both a rallying call for self-reliance and a signal to Washington that India will not be coerced into abandoning its trade practices.
Tariff Escalation Deepens Rift
Tensions escalated further on August 6, when President Trump imposed an additional 25 percent penalty on Indian goods. This came on top of an existing 25 percent tariff, bringing the total to 50 percent.
The White House described the move as necessary to “protect U.S. interests.” However, Indian officials labeled it as excessive and discriminatory. Diplomats in New Delhi argue that such policies undermine the spirit of strategic partnership that both countries have promoted in recent years.
Meanwhile, European governments remain cautious. While Washington is lobbying for sanctions, officials in Brussels and other capitals are weighing the potential fallout on global energy markets and trade balances.
What Lies Ahead
The unfolding trade dispute highlights the challenges of balancing economic nationalism with global cooperation. If European nations follow Washington’s lead, India could face significant restrictions on its international trade. On the other hand, resistance from Europe might leave the U.S. isolated in its approach.
For India, the crisis may accelerate efforts to diversify export markets and strengthen domestic manufacturing under the government’s “Make in India” initiative.
As both sides dig in, the coming weeks are expected to be decisive in shaping the trajectory of U.S.-India relations.