Tharoor Calls Trump ‘School Bully’ – US Targeting Criticism
Tharoor Slams US double Standards Over Russian Oil & New Tariffs on Indian Goods
Table of Contents
India is facing renewed pressure from the United States over its continued purchase of Russian oil, with Washington recently imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods. However, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has sharply criticized the US, accusing it of hypocrisy and applying double standards, pointing to America’s own ongoing trade with Russia.
US Tariffs Spark Outcry, Tharoor Highlights Hypocrisy
The US tariff hike, announced in response to New Delhi’s continued energy purchases from Russia, has ignited a diplomatic row. Tharoor argues that while the US criticizes India, it simultaneously engages in substantial trade with Moscow to fulfill its own national interests. This perceived inconsistency has fueled accusations of unfair treatment and sparked a debate over global trade dynamics amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The US maintains that India’s continued purchase of Russian oil was indirectly financing Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine. Though, Tharoor contends that this argument rings hollow given the US’s own economic ties with Russia.
America’s Continued Trade with Russia: A Matter of ‘National Interest’
Tharoor meticulously detailed the extent of US-Russia trade, highlighting notable imports that continue despite the geopolitical tensions. “America, when its national interests are at stake, buys from Russia without hesitation,” he stated, backing up his claim with specific figures.
He revealed that the US imported USD 806 million worth of fertilizers from Russia in the first five months of the year, projecting an annual total of USD 1.8 to 2 billion. Uranium imports have increased by 28% as last year, and palladium – crucial for catalytic converters – accounted for nearly USD 1 billion in imports last year. Furthermore, the US continues to purchase aircraft parts, engine components, and various chemicals from Russia.
“How can Mr Trump argue that our dollars are fuelling the Russian war machine, but American dollars spent in Russia are not? Isn’t this sheer hypocrisy – entirely unfair and unjustified?” Tharoor questioned, emphasizing the double standard. He suggested the tariff move is highly likely a tactic employed by Donald Trump, aiming to pressure India into conceding, but strongly disapproved of the former President’s confrontational approach.
India Stands Firm: “We Will Not be Dictated To”
Tharoor firmly asserted that India will not yield to what he described as disrespectful and demeaning language. “We are not going to accept being dictated to. Previous Indian governments were treated with a great deal of respect by earlier American Presidents. This kind of disrespectful, belittling, demeaning language is not something we will take kindly to,” he stated.With the tariffs set to fully take effect on August 27th, Tharoor signaled New Delhi’s resolve to defend its interests. “We have three weeks, but if this unfairness persists, we have absolutely no reason not to walk away and look to other horizons,” he warned, indicating a willingness to explore alternative trade partnerships if a resolution isn’t reached.
The existing 25% tariffs on Indian goods, coupled with the new levy, pose a significant challenge to bilateral trade.Negotiations are underway to reach a mutually acceptable agreement before the deadline,but the situation remains tense. India is prepared to stand its ground and protect its economic sovereignty in the face of perceived unfair pressure from the US.
Published By: Prateeek chakraborty
Published On: Aug 8, 2025