US Warns of Additional Sanctions on India Amid Trump-Putin Talks

The US Treasury Secretary has warned that additional sanctions on India could be imposed if the upcoming Trump-Putin talks do not yield positive results. With recent tariffs already affecting Indian imports, tensions are rising as the US accuses India of indirectly supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. As trade negotiations are set to resume, key issues such as India's agricultural market protections remain contentious. The outcome of the Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska could significantly impact US-India relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 14, 2025, 16:42 IST

Potential Sanctions Loom Over India

The US Treasury Secretary has issued a warning that the Trump administration may impose further secondary tariffs on India. The final decision will hinge on the outcomes of the upcoming meeting between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

In an interview with a media channel, Secretary Scott Besant indicated that if the discussions scheduled for Friday in Alaska do not yield positive results, the US could escalate sanctions against India. He mentioned that secondary tariffs have already been applied to Indian buyers of Russian oil, and he foresees the possibility of increased sanctions if the situation does not improve.

Recent Tariffs and India's Response

Recently, Trump imposed a 25% penalty on Indian imports and an additional 25% tariff on purchases of oil and arms from Russia. The US administration has accused New Delhi of indirectly financing Moscow's war in Ukraine. With the total tariffs now reaching 50%, India has strongly opposed this decision, labeling the tariffs as unjust and irrational, defending its oil imports as a matter of national energy security.

Trade Talks and Sticking Points

In a separate statement, Besant described India as somewhat obstinate in trade negotiations. Talks between New Delhi and Washington had previously stalled earlier this month when Trump announced the postponement of discussions regarding Russian trade and other concerns.

With US negotiators expected to arrive in India on August 25, trade discussions may resume just two days before the 50% tariff on Indian goods takes effect. However, experts believe that India's stance on protecting its agricultural and dairy markets will remain a contentious issue during negotiations.

Trump-Putin Meeting and Its Implications

Trump and his Russian counterpart are set to meet in Anchorage, Alaska, to discuss ways to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. The US President, who is attempting to mediate a ceasefire between the warring nations, has warned of severe consequences if Moscow does not agree to a peace deal.

He stated that the primary goal of the talks is to secure a peace agreement to end the conflict that has persisted for over three years. Trump characterized this summit as an opportunity to gauge the Russian leader's willingness for a ceasefire, previously suggesting that the peace agreement might involve territorial exchanges.

Ukraine's Stance on Peace Talks

Ukraine has opposed this idea, asserting that it cannot violate its constitution regarding territorial issues. President Zelensky has confirmed that there will be no peace agreement without Kyiv's participation, emphasizing that the country will not concede any territory to Russia. European officials are also concerned that a meeting without Ukraine's involvement could favor Russian objectives.