Trump hits India with 25% tariff, extra ‘penalty’ for Russian oil purchases

[mominsaigol]

The dynamics between US and India are fundamentally different from those between the US and Pakistan and for good reason.

Historically, the US has seen Pakistan as a more agreeable and easily manageable strategic partner in South Asia. Pakistan has often been treated as a pliable geopolitical asset one that can be leveraged and controlled. Even then, the relationship has been turbulent. Nonetheless Pakistan’s military elite and geopolitical location have made it a convenient partner for specific American interests.

In contrast, India has never fit that mould and never will hopefully. The US has occasionally attempted to draw India into a similar strategic embrace, envisioning it as a counterweight to China or as a junior partner in their Indo-Pacific strategy. But these efforts have mostly fallen short. India’s deep-rooted democratic institutions fawed as they may be are far too strong and independent to allow any government to compromise national sovereignty. In fact governments in India will fall on mere allegations of foreign appeasement. The Indian public and political system have little tolerance for the idea of becoming a vassal state. Hosting US military bases or allowing foreign control over Indian waters is simply not an option.

I have always seen some commentators from Pakistan claim their country is more “geopolitically lucrative” to the US due to its proximity to flashpoints like Iran, China, and Afghanistan. While it’s true that Pakistan sits in a volatile geography you would be naive to not acknowledge that India's geographic position is far more dominant. Just like we have a lot more oil reserves too but we have been pragmatic about the fact that they're not viable enough to start drilling.

India possesses a massive, three-sided coastline and a network of over a thousand islands that give us unrivaled reach and control across the Indian Ocean. It is the only country in the region with the capability to project power across both its land borders and maritime frontiers. The Indian Ocean is India’s sphere of influence, and any power looking to dominate the region must either court India or confront it.

India is not less valuable to the US; it is simply not for sale.

This is what truly irks American strategists. Knowing that they cannot own India. Yet they cannot afford to ignore it either. India is a gigantic market. With a population of over 1.5 billion, India is on track to become the world’s largest consumer base. This is why the US is desperate to open up Indian agriculture and dairy sectors for their exports. The real prize for them is not what India produces but what India consumes. This is where many Indians misunderstand the power dynamic. They ask: What do we have to offer the US? We don’t have rare earths like China.But the truth is that India doesn’t need to sell a damn thing to assert itself. We are becoming the world's biggest buyers and that is a far greater flex. For decades, the US itself has wielded global dominance not through what it exports, but by being the largest and most lucrative importer. Being a consumer superpower comes with immense strategic clout. It forces nations to compete for your favor.

People often assume exporters are more powerful. Sometimes, yes especially when they manipulate supply chains or control scarce resources. But those tactics rarely last. Sellers can hold the world hostage only in artificially created monopolies. The real world is dynamic. If China halts the export of rare earth metals, the rest of the world will simply diversify supply, as we've already seen with joint mining treaties forming globally in the last few years. When the West denied software to China, China built its own. Buyers, on the other hand have a sustainable form of leverage. Everyone wants access to a large, dependable, and growing market. That is why global arms manufacturers are chasing Indian contracts for jets, submarines, and missiles. That is why American dairy lobbies are practically begging for market access. This is the economic muscle of a billion-plus people and it’s only growing & India is just beginning to wield this power. And the desperation from other countries is already showing. Even superpowers cannot ignore this kind of demographic and economic gravity.

The US hasn’t been able to contain much smaller, far more isolated nations like Iran or Russia. So the idea that they can somehow tame or control a vast and democratic behemoth like India is delusional. India may not be easy to manage but it’s impossible to ignore. And that right there is our ultimate strategic advantage.

Its cute that you're assuming i am going to read this.

Bruh, tone down the text volume.

 

[BouncerGuy]

India Will Buy Russian Oil Despite Trump’s Threats, Officials Say

Indian officials said on Saturday that they would keep purchasing cheap oil from Russia despite a threat of penalties from President Trump, the latest twist in an issue that New Delhi thought it had settled.

Mr. Trump said last week that as part of his latest round of tariffs, he would impose an unspecified additional penalty on India if it did not cut off its imports of Russian crude oil. On Friday, he appeared to echo reports of a recent dip in the arrival of Russian oil to India.

“I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia,” he told reporters. “That’s what I heard. I don’t know if that’s right or not. That is a good step. We will see what happens.”

But on Saturday, two senior Indian officials said there had been no change in policy. One official said the government had “not given any direction to oil companies” to cut back imports from Russia.

At a news conference a day earlier, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesman for India’s foreign ministry, declined to address Mr. Trump’s threat directly. But he suggested there would be no change of policy regarding Russia.

“Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country,” Mr. Jaiswal said. “India and Russia have a steady and time-tested partnership.”

Mr. Trump did not say what the penalty would be if India were to defy his call to cut off Russian oil imports. Some officials and analysts have said that Mr. Trump’s focus on India’s purchase of Russian oil could be a negotiating tactic as India and the United States try to conclude the early phases of a bilateral trade agreement. China and Turkey, two other major importers of Russian oil, have not faced similar penalties.

India has drastically increased its purchases of Russian oil since the war in Ukraine began. Russia is now the source of more than one third of India’s oil imports — up from less than one percent before the war. Bringing in more than two million barrels of crude oil a day, India is the second largest importer of Russian oil, after China.

New Delhi faced strong pressure in the early months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine to cut down on its economic ties with Russia. That pressure continued as Indian oil imports spiked.

But by the second year of the war, the tone began to shift on the imports of India, the world’s most populous nation. It appeared that India had convinced its American and European allies that its expanded purchase of cheap Russian oil — at a price cap imposed by the European Union and Group of 7 — was good for keeping global oil prices in check.

Early last year, senior officials at the U.S. Treasury Department visiting New Delhi said India was working within a formula that was proving effective: Keep Russian oil flowing into the global supply but at a cheap enough price that it would shrink Russia’s revenue.

“They bought Russian oil because we wanted somebody to buy Russian oil at a price cap; that was not a violation,” Eric Garcetti, then the U.S. ambassador to New Delhi, said last year. “It was actually the design of the policy because, as a commodity, we didn’t want the oil prices going up, and they fulfilled that.”

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/02/world/asia/india-russia-oil-trump-threats.html

 

[AamchiMumbaikar]

India Will Buy Russian Oil Despite Trump’s Threats, Officials Say

Indian officials said on Saturday that they would keep purchasing cheap oil from Russia despite a threat of penalties from President Trump, the latest twist in an issue that New Delhi thought it had settled.

Mr. Trump said last week that as part of his latest round of tariffs, he would impose an unspecified additional penalty on India if it did not cut off its imports of Russian crude oil. On Friday, he appeared to echo reports of a recent dip in the arrival of Russian oil to India.

“I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia,” he told reporters. “That’s what I heard. I don’t know if that’s right or not. That is a good step. We will see what happens.”

But on Saturday, two senior Indian officials said there had been no change in policy. One official said the government had “not given any direction to oil companies” to cut back imports from Russia.

At a news conference a day earlier, Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesman for India’s foreign ministry, declined to address Mr. Trump’s threat directly. But he suggested there would be no change of policy regarding Russia.

“Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country,” Mr. Jaiswal said. “India and Russia have a steady and time-tested partnership.”

Mr. Trump did not say what the penalty would be if India were to defy his call to cut off Russian oil imports. Some officials and analysts have said that Mr. Trump’s focus on India’s purchase of Russian oil could be a negotiating tactic as India and the United States try to conclude the early phases of a bilateral trade agreement. China and Turkey, two other major importers of Russian oil, have not faced similar penalties.

India has drastically increased its purchases of Russian oil since the war in Ukraine began. Russia is now the source of more than one third of India’s oil imports — up from less than one percent before the war. Bringing in more than two million barrels of crude oil a day, India is the second largest importer of Russian oil, after China.

New Delhi faced strong pressure in the early months after the Russian invasion of Ukraine to cut down on its economic ties with Russia. That pressure continued as Indian oil imports spiked.

But by the second year of the war, the tone began to shift on the imports of India, the world’s most populous nation. It appeared that India had convinced its American and European allies that its expanded purchase of cheap Russian oil — at a price cap imposed by the European Union and Group of 7 — was good for keeping global oil prices in check.

Early last year, senior officials at the U.S. Treasury Department visiting New Delhi said India was working within a formula that was proving effective: Keep Russian oil flowing into the global supply but at a cheap enough price that it would shrink Russia’s revenue.

“They bought Russian oil because we wanted somebody to buy Russian oil at a price cap; that was not a violation,” Eric Garcetti, then the U.S. ambassador to New Delhi, said last year. “It was actually the design of the policy because, as a commodity, we didn’t want the oil prices going up, and they fulfilled that.”

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/02/world/asia/india-russia-oil-trump-threats.html

That's bold

 

[Devadwal]

India has shown its boldness even after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on its exports to the US. India confirmed officially that, they won't stop purchasing oil from Russia.

India is the world's third largest oil consumer. It currently enjoys huge benefits by buying oil from Russia and Iran at huge discounts. Trump has imposed tariffs of around 20% on other Asian countries but 25% on India. So India can easily manage this additional 5% tariff by importing oil from Russia and Iran. At least, India will enjoy diversification in business and do not need to rely on the US as a monopoly.

India has shown to Trump and USA

 

[Devadwal]

When Europe bought billions worth of Russian gas post-2022, it was called “strategic necessity.” When India does it, it becomes “controversial.” such a hypocrites

 

[Devadwal]

India is not a colony of Europe or the USA like Pakistan . It's time to shed that outdated mindset. We will act in the best interest of our people, on our own terms.

 

[topspin]

I feel proud of this moment..as every other country capitulates...India stands strong..by its allies and on its own economic interests...tarrifs are just a sign that India is independent .doesn't have to nominate anyone for prizes because their bases got saved from Brahmos

@Rana was right. You freshies are so cringe

 

[Muhammad Saad]

Trump recent tweet pretty much confirmed who asked for cease fire in operation sindoor as Trump expected a THANKS from India government, Dark day for andbakhts today.

 

[sweep_shot]

 

[straighttalk]

Trump recent tweet pretty much confirmed who asked for cease fire in operation sindoor as Trump expected a THANKS from India government, Dark day for andbakhts today.

Which tweet..last we saw your pm thanking for saving. Your country and Asim Munir bestowing noble prize for saving. His life from brahmos

 

[Romali_rotti]

Pretty much sums it all up.

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

He clearly sounds rattled. Maybe because he was hoping India would endorse his lies and nominate him for the Nobel, but it didn't work.

India is not Salve of USA where they dictated the term and condition like Pakistan who is slaves of USA.

Pakistan have sold their non existent oil to Trump.

This is how Trump administration openly lying.

the NASA-ISRO NISAR agreement was signed on September 30, 2014, during the Obama administration.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1950569195856388551

When Europe bought billions worth of Russian gas post-2022, it was called “strategic necessity.” When India does it, it becomes “controversial.” such a hypocrites

India is not a colony of Europe or the USA like Pakistan . It's time to shed that outdated mindset. We will act in the best interest of our people, on our own terms.

These were your posts not too long ago.

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

How is the Josh? @Devadwal

 

[DeadlyVenom]

How is the Josh? @Devadwal

Lmao you finished him.

 

[rpant_gabba]

Its cute that you're assuming i am going to read this.

Bruh, tone down the text volume.

Understandable. Bird brains can have trouble with with complex subjects

 

[sweep_shot]

How is the Josh? @Devadwal

This Devadwal is a walking talking meme.

He keeps on embarrassing himself.

 

[sweep_shot]

This Devadwal is a walking talking meme.

He keeps on embarrassing himself.

What this fruitcake doesn't understand USA needs China more than China needs USA. USA and whole world are dependent on China in many different ways. China is the world's largest manufacturer.

 

[IAJ]

How is the Josh? @Devadwal

He is a

Anyways understandable that India are not happy with this nonesense from USA. If USA can not tolerate India having trades with Russia, India on same hand can say they are not happy with USA taking side with Pakistan as Pakistan are Indias rival just like Russia is USA’s. You need to apply same principles. That is how free countries deal with each other.

 

[Bhaijaan]

He is a

Anyways understandable that India are not happy with this nonesense from USA. If USA can not tolerate India having trades with Russia, India on same hand can say they are not happy with USA taking side with Pakistan as Pakistan are Indias rival just like Russia is USA’s. You need to apply same principles. That is how free countries deal with each other.

Might is Right

US being the dominant financial and military superpower and the fact it exclusively prints THE reserve currency of the world means they literally have a Credit Card with no limits. It can print money at will, purchase valuable resources from across the globe, and then cleverly reinvest that capital into high-tech, high-value industries. In return, it offers the world less in quantity, but more in perceived value while still sitting atop a staggering $40 trillion in debt.

This is arguably the largest bubble in economic history which has persisted only because of America's subservient allies who themselves have been historical thieves.

Trump is simply the political manifestation of the deep-seated anxiety, fear, and growing helplessness felt by many Americans. Where previous leaders were careful to veil America's vulnerabilities, Trump’s erratic behavior laid bare the American insecurity and internal decay. China and Russia were the first to challenge and test the limits of American threats and power projection, and in doing so they helped the rest of the world recalibrate their perceptions. The illusion of American invincibility has been pierced. The world is waking up to the reality that American dominance while still formidable is not infinite.

 

[Rajdeep]

Dow sinks 500 points, global stocks drop as Trump unveils his tariffs​

Stocks across the globe closed lower Friday after President Donald Trump unveiled his plan for levying tariffs on trading partners, threatening to upend decades of international cooperation.

The Dow tumbled 542 points, or 1.23%. The broader S&P 500 fell 1.6% and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite slipped 2.24%.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq posted their biggest single-day loss since May and April, respectively. The indexes also snapped two-week winning streaks.

The Dow posted its biggest single-day drop in over a month. The blue-chip index fell every day this week and posted its worst week since early April.

Trump late Thursday released his long-awaited plan for tariffs on US trading partners. The president laid out tariffs ranging from 10% to 41% on countries from Chile to Syria, set to take effect August 7 — which was later than expected.

Investors in recent months have begun to try and look past Trump’s tariffs, betting the president will back down on his most daunting threats. As the president has tempered his approach — including once again delaying the start of tariffs — markets have tried to adjust to the prospect of a more protectionist global order. But the scope and unprecedented nature of the tariff campaign portends to roil the global economy and markets.

“The market is tired of the tariff drama,” Peter Ricchiuti, senior professor of finance at Tulane University, told CNN. “There is also the recognition that the tariff damage will get worse.”

https://edition.cnn.com/2025/08/01/investing/us-stock-market

 

[Patriot]

India is not a colony of Europe or the USA like Pakistan . It's time to shed that outdated mindset. We will act in the best interest of our people, on our own terms.

And that’s fine, but don’t lecture other countries about morals. That’s hypocrisy.

 

[HalBass9]

My thoughts on this:

Region stability is impossible between India and Pakistan because the stake holders are not just India and Pakistan, Americans and Chinese are involved also.

Even if India and Pakistan decides to call it quits and shake hands the other 2 mentioned countries will not allow it ️.

Americans need India and Pakistan to counter balance the Chinese.

Americans have deep ties within the ISI, they will use the ISI to spy on Chinese and disrupt supply chains especially via Gwadhar. Americans want the supply chain choke points to always be present against the Chinese be it via Gwadhar or Malaka Straits.

Americans will use the Indians to counter balance the Chinese via economy, also Malaka Strait choke points building paranoia in the Indian camp with a Chinese military threat etc.

Chinese will use Pakistan to be a issue for India always to slow India's progress and also gather Intel on the Americans.

There will never be peace in the region it is time we all accept it and move on.

How would you solve this ridde ?

I disagree with the notion that China would allow such a scenario. Had you mentioned only the US, it would have been a plausible argument. But China has never pursued or benefited from regional instability, especially not in its own backyard. What China will not tolerate, however, is India achieving military dominance over Pakistan. Such an imbalance would choke China’s strategic supply lines and disrupt its broader economic interests.

China has no incentive to let Pakistan’s ties with the West sour. Neither Pakistan nor China benefits from that fallout. The only party invested in isolating Pakistan is India, driven by its domestic political compulsions. For India’s ruling elite, keeping Pakistan alive as a convenient “boogeyman” is essential to sustaining their nationalist bravado at home. But let’s be clear, spinning a narrative is one thing, translating it into military dominance is a completely different ballgame, one India has consistently failed to win. Every so called “surgical strike” or more accurately, political strike, has been nothing but a glorified PR exercise, designed to pacify domestic audiences, while failing to project any credible dominance to the outside world.

Indians continue to fundamentally misunderstand China’s long term strategy. China doesn’t want chaos, it wants prosperity. It is the biggest beneficiary of regional and global stability. Disrupting the system it profits from is not in China’s playbook.

You’re right about one thing though, there will be no peace as long as India remains obsessed with its wet dream of isolating its immediate neighbor. This policy was doomed from day one, a facade of fake bravado sold for electoral gains, now rebounding as a self inflicted strategic blunder.

And please, spare me the cliche that “Pakistan should stop whatever it’s doing in India.” That’s not an argument, it’s a crutch for people who’ve run out of points. This little riddle you’re clinging to exists only in your own head. Reality, unfortunately for you, doesn't bend that easily.

 

[LordJames]

August 4, 2025: Stock Market

https://www.cnn.com/markets

Dow has rallied and it is up 553 points...

 

[Bhaijaan]

Trump’s latest comment today -

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952453965674590506

India’s official response -

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952412858567844061

 

[straighttalk]

I disagree with the notion that China would allow such a scenario. Had you mentioned only the US, it would have been a plausible argument. But China has never pursued or benefited from regional instability, especially not in its own backyard. What China will not tolerate, however, is India achieving military dominance over Pakistan. Such an imbalance would choke China’s strategic supply lines and disrupt its broader economic interests.

China has no incentive to let Pakistan’s ties with the West sour. Neither Pakistan nor China benefits from that fallout. The only party invested in isolating Pakistan is India, driven by its domestic political compulsions. For India’s ruling elite, keeping Pakistan alive as a convenient “boogeyman” is essential to sustaining their nationalist bravado at home. But let’s be clear, spinning a narrative is one thing, translating it into military dominance is a completely different ballgame, one India has consistently failed to win. Every so called “surgical strike” or more accurately, political strike, has been nothing but a glorified PR exercise, designed to pacify domestic audiences, while failing to project any credible dominance to the outside world.

Indians continue to fundamentally misunderstand China’s long term strategy. China doesn’t want chaos, it wants prosperity. It is the biggest beneficiary of regional and global stability. Disrupting the system it profits from is not in China’s playbook.

You’re right about one thing though, there will be no peace as long as India remains obsessed with its wet dream of isolating its immediate neighbor. This policy was doomed from day one, a facade of fake bravado sold for electoral gains, now rebounding as a self inflicted strategic blunder.

And please, spare me the cliche that “Pakistan should stop whatever it’s doing in India.” That’s not an argument, it’s a crutch for people who’ve run out of points. This little riddle you’re clinging to exists only in your own head. Reality, unfortunately for you, doesn't bend that easily.

You sir is like a frog in the well...

India doesn't desire military dominance over Pakistan...it has zero benefits..what we want is zero terrorism coming from a economically failed fanatic country. For that reason we launch targeted strikes which have significantly reduced such attacks over the years.

As for military dominance over Pakistan..it has been achieved...by defeating Paksitan attack on kashmir in 65, halving the country in 71, humiliating annexation or Siachen, utter humiliation in Kargil..so much so that Paksitan now doesn't dare to launch any direct war ..and cries nuclear war and fake Indian attack stories before Sindoor commenced .there is no intention of implementing military domination specially under nuclear umbrella..but there is interest in thrawting terrorism...

Now economic domination .that's something we don't have to do anything..Paksitani military is ensuring that your country is destroyed...with Islamic terrorism and looting..so we just have to wait and watch .

 

[Bhaijaan]

He’s rattled

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952406906162872760

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Shame on India.

 

[Bhaijaan]

India’s taken the baton now from China in exposing America’s hypocrisy. You’re welcome world.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952423089607774456

 

[Bhaijaan]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952429761466409025

 

[HalBass9]

You sir is like a frog in the well...

India doesn't desire military dominance over Pakistan...it has zero benefits..what we want is zero terrorism coming from a economically failed fanatic country. For that reason we launch targeted strikes which have significantly reduced such attacks over the years.

As for military dominance over Pakistan..it has been achieved...by defeating Paksitan attack on kashmir in 65, halving the country in 71, humiliating annexation or Siachen, utter humiliation in Kargil..so much so that Paksitan now doesn't dare to launch any direct war ..and cries nuclear war and fake Indian attack stories before Sindoor commenced .there is no intention of implementing military domination specially under nuclear umbrella..but there is interest in thrawting terrorism...

Now economic domination .that's something we don't have to do anything..Paksitani military is ensuring that your country is destroyed...with Islamic terrorism and looting..so we just have to wait and watch .

You’re not Arnab’s guest.

 

[Cricket Warrior]

He’s rattled

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952406906162872760

he is not concerned what Israel is doing in Gaza but more conceremed about Ukraine...

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Trump again threatens India with harsh tariffs over Russian oil purchases

U.S. President Donald Trump again threatened on Monday to raise tariffs on goods from India over its Russian oil purchases, while New Delhi called his attack "unjustified" and vowed to protect its economic interests, deepening the trade rift between the two countries.

In a social media post, Trump wrote, "India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil, they are then, for much of the Oil purchased, selling it on the Open Market for big profits. They don't care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian War Machine."

"Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA," he added.
A spokesperson for India's foreign ministry said in response that India will "take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security."

"The targeting of India is unjustified and unreasonable," the spokesperson added.

Trump has said that from Friday he will impose new sanctions on Russia as well as on countries that buy its energy exports, unless Moscow takes steps to end its 3-1/2 year war with Ukraine, opens new tab. Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown no public sign of altering his stance despite the deadline.

https://www.reuters.com/world/india/trump-again-threatens-india-with-harsh-tariffs-over-russian-oil-purchases-2025-08-04/

 

[Cricket Warrior]

India slams Trump's fresh tariff threat, says US 'actively encouraged' import of Russian oil

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) defended the India’s choice to buy oil from Russia on Monday, amid criticism from the US and the European Union.

According to the MEA, India’s imports from Russia are driven by need and are intended to keep energy costs predictable and affordable for Indian customers.

The MEA branded criticism of India’s trade policies as “unjustified and unreasonable,” and stated that India will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and economic security.

According to the MEA, India’s imports from Russia are driven by need and are intended to keep energy costs predictable and affordable for Indian customers.

The MEA branded criticism of India’s trade policies as “unjustified and unreasonable,” and stated that India will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and economic security.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) explained that India’s crude imports from Russia were caused by interruptions in regular supply lines following the outbreak of the crisis in Ukraine.

'Unjustified, unreasonable': India slams Trump's fresh tariff threat, says US 'actively encouraged' import of Russian oil

India strongly defended its Russian oil imports after Donald Trump threatened new tariffs, calling the criticism “unjustified and unreasonable.” The MEA cited Western nations’ continued trade with Russia and stressed India’s right to safeguard its energy security.

www.firstpost.com

 

[Bhaijaan]

India's set the cat among the pigeons and its nothing less than extra ordinary what it has pulled off despite being an oil dependent state.

Like i said in other threads, true leverage is dictated by Buyers in the long term and not Sellers. India being a major buyer in global economy holds the high card. It has the ability now to influence Geopolitics by changing suppliers & has the ability to bankroll nations through the same.

India saw an opening in the chaos of global sanctions on Russian crude and tapped into the deeply discounted Russian Urals crude at a time when most Western buyers recoiled. While Urals was trading at a discount of up to $10–15 below Brent benchmarks, India treated this not as a risk but as a golden opportunity to trim its import bill and fortify its foreign-exchange reserves. By mid-2025, India had surged to become the world’s largest seaborne importer of Russian crude, lifting nearly 1.75 million barrels per day, a transformation that few had anticipated.

It is important however to note that India was able to pull it off specially thanks to decades of strategic investments in building state of the art mega refineries that are able to process heavier Russian urals at scale large enough to make it a profitable venture. It was decades of foresight and investment in world-class refining infrastructure. Reliance Industries’ Jamnagar complex, today the largest single-site refinery on Earth, along with Nayara Energy’s Vadinar facility, Indian Oil’s Panipat and Mathura plants, and HPCL’s Visakh refinery, were all painstakingly upgraded with flexible crude units, residue fluidized catalytic crackers, hydrocrackers, and multi-stage desulfurization trains. These enhancements, rolled out from the early 2000s onward, converted once-rigid installations into agile processing hubs capable of handling the heavy, high-sulfur Urals blend and turning it into ultra-low-sulfur diesel, aviation fuel, and petrochemical feedstocks at margins that outstripped global refining averages



Timing was critical. As Urals discounts widened to as much as $20–30 per barrel during late 2022 and early 2023, Indian engineers fine-tuned catalyst formulations in hydrocrackers, optimized crude-cut profiles for maximum middle-distillate yields, and extended hydrotreating runs to reduce downtime. Simultaneously, policymakers negotiated innovative payment channels—blending rupees, UAE dirhams, and rubles through specialized escrow arrangements and offshore clearinghouses—to sidestep the threat of secondary sanctions. This dual approach of industrial precision and financial ingenuity created a smooth, end-to-end operation: Russian barrels docked at Jamnagar and Vadinar, were transformed into high-value fuels, and then shipped out to global markets, including Europe and Africa, often at a premium.

Throughout this period, India’s leadership maintained an unwavering stance in the face of Western exhortations to “boycott” Russian oil. New Delhi repeatedly invoked its sovereign right to secure energy for 1.4 billion people, arguing that lectures from distant capitals could not supersede the imperative of national growth. Behind closed doors, senior ministers made clear that energy security was non-negotiable, even as U.S. and EU officials privately warned of reputational risks and possible trade repercussions. By publicly doubling down on strategic autonomy and quietly crafting robust diplomatic defenses, India insulated its energy strategy from outside pressure and asserted itself as a nation that would put principle into practice



The results speak volumes. By 2024, India’s imports of Russian crude soared from a pre-war trickle to nearly 270 million barrels annually, trimming roughly $15 billion from its import expenses. Domestic refinery margins jumped by over 15 percent in the first half of 2023, financing further upgrades in renewable fuels and green hydrogen. Exports of refined products, propelled by Jamnagar’s 1.4 million bpd capacity and Vadinar’s near-zero residue performance, rose by almost 20 percent, meeting shortages in Europe and Southeast Asia created by Western embargoes. In doing so, India not only bolstered its own energy security but also redefined its role from passive importer to indispensable hub of global oil flows

What began as a bold play in a turbulent market has become a masterclass in strategic readiness. India’s engineers and diplomats demonstrated that true energy autonomy rests on the twin pillars of technical excellence and political resolve. By marrying state-of-the-art refinery capabilities with a fearless vision for national interest, India turned a geopolitical crisis into a landmark victory—one that reshaped energy geopolitics and left Western capitals watching as New Delhi rewrote the rules of the game.

Last but not the least when Trump tried to use the Russian oil purchase matter to pressurize India on the trade deal, India completely exposed the American hypocrisy and double standards when it came to dealing with Russians.

India pointed to official trade data showing that the United States itself imported billions of dollars’ worth of goods from Russia, even during the height of the Ukraine conflict. Key items included:

• Uranium: The U.S. continued importing enriched uranium from Russia to fuel its nuclear reactors, despite sanctions in other areas.
• Fertilizers: American farmers continued relying on Russian fertilizer due to its cost-effectiveness and availability.
• Metals: Imports of aluminum and other critical metals used in aerospace and defense were ongoing.
• Energy Products: Even in early 2023, small quantities of refined petroleum products were still being imported by certain U.S. entities.

In total, the U.S.-Russia trade volume exceeded $1 billion in some months post-war & the EU’s dependence on Russian LNG continued well into 2024, even as they urged others to stop energy trade.

So Americans need to cry foul at a nation which has simply been smart and capable enough to flip the script on the oil market.

India's won this episode and made 30-40 billion dollars worth of profit already.

 

[Bhaijaan]

@ElRaja @Markhor @LordJames @Mamoon @gazza619 @Suleiman @Rajdeep @Devadwal @RexRex @MP2011 @deltexas @Nikhil_cric @Varun @Romali_rotti @cricketjoshila @kron @Hitman @Vikram1989 @uppercut @pillionrider @JaDed @Champ_Pal @RedwoodOriginal @IAJ @Bilal7 @Bewal Express

 

[Devadwal]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1952589020497690782

Indian army demolish Pakistan again and again but this time along with USA agenda

@Rajdeep

 

[Romali_rotti]

I disagree with the notion that China would allow such a scenario. Had you mentioned only the US, it would have been a plausible argument. But China has never pursued or benefited from regional instability, especially not in its own backyard. What China will not tolerate, however, is India achieving military dominance over Pakistan. Such an imbalance would choke China’s strategic supply lines and disrupt its broader economic interests.

A few things here:

- I would agree China overall would not want to have a disruptive and chaotic sub continent, I should have made that clear earlier. For the simple reason being India is China's largest trade partner in South West Asia and also its 12th largest Trade partner in the world. India China trade relationship is worth an estimated 140 Billion/year with a trade imbalance of around 110 billion in favor of the Chinese.

However just because China doesn't want total mayhem and chaos in the Indian sub continent like what US may want, doesn't mean China wants the sub continent to be peaceful and rosey, they want India to always be hamstrung and they use Pakistan to make this happen.

- India already has military and economic dominance over Pakistan, Pakistan has nothing, Pakistan is broke with no money, whatever economy you have goes to your military rather than its citizens.

China has no incentive to let Pakistan’s ties with the West sour. Neither Pakistan nor China benefits from that fallout. The only party invested in isolating Pakistan is India, driven by its domestic political compulsions. For India’s ruling elite, keeping Pakistan alive as a convenient “boogeyman” is essential to sustaining their nationalist bravado at home. But let’s be clear, spinning a narrative is one thing, translating it into military dominance is a completely different ballgame, one India has consistently failed to win. Every so called “surgical strike” or more accurately, political strike, has been nothing but a glorified PR exercise, designed to pacify domestic audiences, while failing to project any credible dominance to the outside world.

This shows delusion at the highest of levels, a Pakistani trait I have seen quite frequently. You really think, China has no concerns or issues with CIA having deep ties in the ISI which no doubt would cause issues for the Chinese supply routes from Gwadhar, especially considering China is America's biggest threat. This is quite Shahid Afridi level intellect you showed here lad, no offence, lol...

Pakistan does play a role in Indian politics but not to the boogey man extend of what your military does with their false Kashmir propaganda to stay in power and suck the economy dry...

Regarding the military confrontations between India/Pak, lets just say both Indians/Pakistanis will always say their country won at the end of the day....During the one and only full scale war, Pakistan was split into 2, One section of Ex Pakistan is now where my bro @sweep_shot has been freely nangin dancing...

You’re right about one thing though, there will be no peace as long as India remains obsessed with its wet dream of isolating its immediate neighbor. This policy was doomed from day one, a facade of fake bravado sold for electoral gains, now rebounding as a self inflicted strategic blunder.

I have always maintained that Pakistan cannot be isolated, no matter how much the Indian leadership try, Indian leaders also know this. Qadir Khan was just the entree in nuclear proliferation, if Pakistan is isolated and recognized as a failed state, then the consequences for the world could be devastating with nuclear proliferation occurring left right and center on a large global scale. For the plain fact that Pakistan has a nuclear weapon is enough for them to escape the failed state/isolated status, will never get isolated.

Indian leaders shouting bravado in public are all for show, real objective is to convince the voting public that they are trying to screw Pakistan in return for some nationalism nothing more (Helps during elections).

And please, spare me the cliche that “Pakistan should stop whatever it’s doing in India.” That’s not an argument, it’s a crutch for people who’ve run out of points. This little riddle you’re clinging to exists only in your own head. Reality, unfortunately for you, doesn't bend that easily.

Pakistan is a hopeless cause, I have said this numerous times here for decades, and I have been proven right. India's objective is different, Indians in 'reality' forget the false politician bravado, are aiming to become a developed nation, possibly 20 years away but they are on the right track. Pakistani leadership in the meantime is selling off their country and looking to take orders from US/China depending on the political climate. Peace between India and Pakistan is not possible, 2 countries with totally different visions and challenges along with external stake holders also being involved, which is why it is best to let things be.



bold...

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

A few things here:

- I would agree China overall would not want to have a disruptive and chaotic sub continent, I should have made that clear earlier. For the simple reason being India is China's largest trade partner in South West Asia and also its 12th largest Trade partner in the world. India China trade relationship is worth an estimated 140 Billion/year with a trade imbalance of around 110 billion in favor of the Chinese.

However just because China doesn't want total mayhem and chaos in the Indian sub continent like what US may want, doesn't mean China wants the sub continent to be peaceful and rosey, they want India to always be hamstrung and they use Pakistan to make this happen.

- India already has military and economic dominance over Pakistan, Pakistan has nothing, Pakistan is broke with no money, whatever economy you have goes to your military rather than its citizens.




This shows delusion at the highest of levels, a Pakistani trait I have seen quite frequently. You really think, China has no concerns or issues with CIA having deep ties in the ISI which no doubt would cause issues for the Chinese supply routes from Gwadhar, especially considering China is America's biggest threat. This is quite Shahid Afridi level intellect you showed here lad, no offence, lol...

Pakistan does play a role in Indian politics but not to the boogey man extend of what your military does with their false Kashmir propaganda to stay in power and suck the economy dry...

Regarding the military confrontations between India/Pak, lets just say both Indians/Pakistanis will always say their country won at the end of the day....During the one and only full scale war, Pakistan was split into 2, One section of Ex Pakistan is now where my bro @sweep_shot has been freely nangin dancing...



I have always maintained that Pakistan cannot be isolated, no matter how much the Indian leadership try, Indian leaders also know this. Qadir Khan was just the entree in nuclear proliferation, if Pakistan is isolated and recognized as a failed state, then the consequences for the world could be devastating with nuclear proliferation occurring left right and center on a large global scale. For the plain fact that Pakistan has a nuclear weapon is enough for them to escape the failed state/isolated status, will never get isolated.

Indian leaders shouting bravado in public are all for show, real objective is to convince the voting public that they are trying to screw Pakistan in return for some nationalism nothing more (Helps during elections).




Pakistan is a hopeless cause, I have said this numerous times here for decades, and I have been proven right. India's objective is different, Indians in 'reality' forget the false politician bravado, are aiming to become a developed nation, possibly 20 years away but they are on the right track. Pakistani leadership in the meantime is selling off their country and looking to take orders from US/China depending on the political climate. Peace between India and Pakistan is not possible, 2 countries with totally different visions and challenges along with external stake holders also being involved, which is why it is best to let things be.



bold...

How is anybody meant to read that when it is all in bold?

All I can make out is that it seems to be almost entirely about Pakistan rather than USA tariffs on India due to connivance with Russia.

 

[Bhaijaan]

How is anybody meant to read that when it is all in bold?

All I can make out is that it seems to be almost entirely about Pakistan rather than USA tariffs on India due to connivance with Russia.

Font style : Sanatani Passion

 

[Romali_rotti]

How is anybody meant to read that when it is all in bold?

All I can make out is that it seems to be almost entirely about Pakistan rather than USA tariffs on India due to connivance with Russia.

Can't help you Cap..

 

[DeadlyVenom]

Indians fallen policy decline has been rapid and surprising even to me. They very quickly became pariahs in Asia, the loss in Bangladesh is panicking them as key analysts have determined that Pakistan will soon be opening up proxies on the eastern border. The remaining Asian countries apart from Afghanistan view the Indians suspiciously.

Canada has been calling out the Indians, and now the US and European union has joined in.

Has any one country burned so many bridges. It is all well and good many NRI telling us about Indians progress, but the world is now viewing it as a dead economy and nuisance.

 

[Rajdeep]

Woh Modi hai

 

[KingKhanWC]

Not even the most passionate Hindutva fan can deny , Modi has been humiliated by Trump. The love Modi showed to Dooland was more than he has ever showed to his partner!

India ran into the Zionist/West camp 20 odd years ago, thinking they will be given state of the art weapons, satellite use, intelligence etc.. USA/Zionism wanted India on their side against China if the need were to arise.

After the recent bad result to Pakistan, USA realised this partnership is a waste of time as India cannot even take on Pakistan, let alone China. Trumps administration is run by neocon/zionists who are now shifting support to Pakistan as they have puppets in place within the army and controlling the politics. Things may change with a change of leadership in both countries but for now Modi will continue to be humiliated openly by Trump.


If India and Pakistan had brain cells, they would want to start fresh and become allies instead of being used like cattle and donkeys.

 

[sweep_shot]

Indians fallen policy decline has been rapid and surprising even to me. They very quickly became pariahs in Asia, the loss in Bangladesh is panicking them as key analysts have determined that Pakistan will soon be opening up proxies on the eastern border. The remaining Asian countries apart from Afghanistan view the Indians suspiciously.

Canada has been calling out the Indians, and now the US and European union has joined in.

Has any one country burned so many bridges. It is all well and good many NRI telling us about Indians progress, but the world is now viewing it as a dead economy and nuisance.

Correct.

This is why a country should be lead by someone who has good critical thinking skills. Not an illiterate chaiwala.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Indians fallen policy decline has been rapid and surprising even to me. They very quickly became pariahs in Asia, the loss in Bangladesh is panicking them as key analysts have determined that Pakistan will soon be opening up proxies on the eastern border. The remaining Asian countries apart from Afghanistan view the Indians suspiciously.

Canada has been calling out the Indians, and now the US and European union has joined in.

Has any one country burned so many bridges. It is all well and good many NRI telling us about Indians progress, but the world is now viewing it as a dead economy and nuisance.

India's failure to take leadership of Asia, or at least be one of the two major players should have been a good indicator of coming failures. Their descent into hindutva nonsense and subsequent focus on Pakistan has just showcased their lack of vision and solutions. They just aren't equipped for the modern world. They are just a souped up larger version of Pakistan.

 

[cricketjoshila]

lol what oil Reserves? Pakistan could nt develop or extract those reserves in Gazillions Years on their own if they exist

Why can’t Pakistan? Now you have signed sway pKistans most valuable asset fo USA 350mn barrels of oil ress

 

[mazkhan]

Respect for India for standing up to modern day imperialists

A sign of a independent and confident leadership

 

[cricketjoshila]

in dia will not dump brics or russia because of usa we ate not a vassal state our sovereignty matters more than any trade deal. Dolun can keep applying tariffs

 

[Rajdeep]

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

View attachment 156639

@Devadwal @nish_mate @Nikhil_cric @mominsaigol

 

[Rajdeep]

Trump is really upset that India is not paying attention to his threats and acting defiant. So threatening to increase tariffs again

BTW, international media is also supporting India's rights of sovereignty

 

[Rajdeep]

in dia will not dump brics or russia because of usa we ate not a vassal state our sovereignty matters more than any trade deal. Dolun can keep applying tariffs

Correct. Trump is mistaking India for being Pakistan or Bangladesh.

 

[Rajdeep]

Respect for India for standing up to modern day imperialists

A sign of a independent and confident leadership

Thank you

 

[Ball Blazer]

President Trump says he will raise tariffs on India 'substantially' within the next 24 hours

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he would increase the tariff charged on imports from India from the current rate of 25 per cent “very substantially” over the next 24 hours, given India’s continued purchases of Russian oil.

“India has not been a good trading partner, because they do a lot of business with us, but we don’t do business with them. So we settled on 25pc but I think I’m going to raise that very substantially over the next 24 hours, because they’re buying Russian oil,” he told CNBC in a televised interview.

“They’re fuelling the war machine, and if they’re going to do that, then I’m not going to be happy,” Trump said, adding that the main sticking point with India was that its tariffs were too high.

He did not provide a new tariff rate for India.

Source: Dawn

 

[HalBass9]

A few things here:

- I would agree China overall would not want to have a disruptive and chaotic sub continent, I should have made that clear earlier. For the simple reason being India is China's largest trade partner in South West Asia and also its 12th largest Trade partner in the world. India China trade relationship is worth an estimated 140 Billion/year with a trade imbalance of around 110 billion in favor of the Chinese.

However just because China doesn't want total mayhem and chaos in the Indian sub continent like what US may want, doesn't mean China wants the sub continent to be peaceful and rosey, they want India to always be hamstrung and they use Pakistan to make this happen.

- India already has military and economic dominance over Pakistan, Pakistan has nothing, Pakistan is broke with no money, whatever economy you have goes to your military rather than its citizens.




This shows delusion at the highest of levels, a Pakistani trait I have seen quite frequently. You really think, China has no concerns or issues with CIA having deep ties in the ISI which no doubt would cause issues for the Chinese supply routes from Gwadhar, especially considering China is America's biggest threat. This is quite Shahid Afridi level intellect you showed here lad, no offence, lol...

Pakistan does play a role in Indian politics but not to the boogey man extend of what your military does with their false Kashmir propaganda to stay in power and suck the economy dry...

Regarding the military confrontations between India/Pak, lets just say both Indians/Pakistanis will always say their country won at the end of the day....During the one and only full scale war, Pakistan was split into 2, One section of Ex Pakistan is now where my bro @sweep_shot has been freely nangin dancing...



I have always maintained that Pakistan cannot be isolated, no matter how much the Indian leadership try, Indian leaders also know this. Qadir Khan was just the entree in nuclear proliferation, if Pakistan is isolated and recognized as a failed state, then the consequences for the world could be devastating with nuclear proliferation occurring left right and center on a large global scale. For the plain fact that Pakistan has a nuclear weapon is enough for them to escape the failed state/isolated status, will never get isolated.

Indian leaders shouting bravado in public are all for show, real objective is to convince the voting public that they are trying to screw Pakistan in return for some nationalism nothing more (Helps during elections).




Pakistan is a hopeless cause, I have said this numerous times here for decades, and I have been proven right. India's objective is different, Indians in 'reality' forget the false politician bravado, are aiming to become a developed nation, possibly 20 years away but they are on the right track. Pakistani leadership in the meantime is selling off their country and looking to take orders from US/China depending on the political climate. Peace between India and Pakistan is not possible, 2 countries with totally different visions and challenges along with external stake holders also being involved, which is why it is best to let things be.



bold...

You keep chanting “I have said it many times” like a broken record, as if repetition magically changes the ground reality. Reality isn’t defined by how many times you parrot a line; it’s defined by outcomes.

No point in unpacking every spin. I’ll counter just the one point that actually matters, India attacked Pakistan. Dropped BrahMos missiles, sent jets, and what did the world witness? India losing 4.5th generation aircraft to Pakistan’s response within hours. That wasn’t a display of “regional supremacy”, it was a political stunt aimed at appeasing domestic bravado. What it truly exposed was how unprepared India was for the escalation it provoked.

Modi had six years after acquiring Rafales to choreograph this spectacle, and yet it collapsed on execution. As for the “SupaPowar” fantasy, India was supposed to be a global powerhouse by now, wasn’t it? Yet here we are, watching expectations quietly downgrade from “superpower” to maybe a developed nation by 2047, while the rest of the region moves on.

But by all means, keep typing “I have said it before” in bold, it won’t change the ground reality.

Rest is your opinion, and everyone has one.

 

[HalBass9]

Trump is an idiot, no doubt about that. Seeing India stand up to him is refreshing. But let’s be clear, eventually, India will have to come to the negotiating table.

 

[Bhaag Viru Bhaag]

Correct. Trump is mistaking India for being Pakistan or Bangladesh.

Abki baar, Trump sarkar.

 

[Rajdeep]

Trump is an idiot, no doubt about that. Seeing India stand up to him is refreshing. But let’s be clear, eventually, India will have to come to the negotiating table.

India will surely come at negotiating table but will not get bullied by Amreeka. Indian MEA already responded to Trump Tariff threats.

 

[Rajdeep]

if India remains defiant, will CIA & deep state work with Indian opposition to topple Modi Govt like it did for Imran Khan and Seikh Haseena?

#HainHimmat

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

if India remains defiant, will CIA & deep state work with Indian opposition to topple Modi Govt like it did for Imran Khan and Seikh Haseena?

#HainHimmat

@Bhaag Viru Bhaag @sweep_shot thoughts about your leaders?

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

Trump is an idiot, no doubt about that. Seeing India stand up to him is refreshing. But let’s be clear, eventually, India will have to come to the negotiating table.

Classic PTI supporter, praises India and insults own patriots. @Rana @emranabbas @Bewal Express

 

[HalBass9]

India will surely come at negotiating table but will not get bullied by Amreeka. Indian MEA already responded to Trump Tariff threats.

India has a long history of making tall claims right before it buckles when it actually has to stand up. For now, this will be sold in Indian media as yet another “supa powar” moment. But when India inevitably folds, the narrative will be spun, and Indians will conveniently forget again that they buckled.

As for that brilliant MIGA scientific equation with Dolaund Trump, it seems the Indian geniuses who coined it forgot to carry a few zeros. Maybe the math didn’t math the way they imagined.

 

[Rajdeep]

Btw, after India-England series is over and owning posters there who didnt believe in #RajdeepSpeaks, my attention is now totally in Time Pass section.

@HalBass9 @Cpt. Rishwat @IMMY69 - get ready for some serious debates with your beloved Raj.

#HaiHimmat

 

[HalBass9]

Classic PTI supporter, praises India and insults own patriots. @Rana @emranabbas @Bewal Express

I have immense respect for every Pakistani who has stood up for democracy. What could be more patriotic than defending the Constitution of Pakistan?

Try it for yourself and you might not embarrass yourself.

 

[RizwanT20Champ]

I have immense respect for every Pakistani who has stood up for democracy. What could be more patriotic than defending the Constitution of Pakistan?

Try it for yourself and you might not embarrass yourself.

Do you respect the elected Government you hypocrite?

 

[HalBass9]

Do you respect the elected Government you hypocrite?

I believe in democracy, so yes!

 

[IMMY69]

Btw, after India-England series is over and owning posters there who didnt believe in #RajdeepSpeaks, my attention is now totally in Time Pass section.

@HalBass9 @Cpt. Rishwat @IMMY69 - get ready for some serious debates with your beloved Raj.

#HaiHimmat

Hopefully this will be my first only post on this thread....