India Rejects Trump’s Tariff Threats, Ex-Diplomat Declares Stance

Former Indian diplomat Rajiv Dogra has issued a strong rebuttal to the tariff threats made by former US President Donald Trump, asserting that India will not be intimidated by such measures. Trump had proposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s trade relationships with Russia as a primary concern. Dogra characterized Trump as “a bully of a rare kind,” emphasizing that India would not yield to what he considers hollow intimidation tactics.

The comments come on the heels of Trump’s announcement regarding penalties against India, while he overlooked similar trade dealings involving Turkey. This discrepancy has raised questions about the consistency of US trade policies and the motivations behind them. In a pointed declaration of India’s strategic autonomy, Dogra reminded Washington that New Delhi does not rely on the US for its exports, highlighting the nation’s ability to navigate its trade relationships independently.

Dogra criticized the selective nature of US sanctions, stating that they reflect a double standard in international relations. He dismissed claims made by the White House regarding mediation efforts during Operation Sindoor, asserting that India makes decisions based on its own national interests.

India’s Firm Stance Amid Rising Tensions

As trade tensions between India and the United States escalate, Dogra urged the Indian government to maintain its resolve in the face of geopolitical pressures. “India makes its own decisions,” he reiterated, reinforcing the message that the country will chart its own course in the global arena, even if it means facing challenges from powerful nations like the US.

The relationship between India and the US is currently navigating turbulent waters, with both countries grappling with complex trade dynamics and broader geopolitical considerations. India’s response to Trump’s tariff threats signals a commitment to its own economic policies and a refusal to be swayed by external pressures.

In a world where economic relationships are increasingly interlinked, India’s clear stance serves as a reminder of its growing influence and determination to uphold its sovereignty. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how both nations approach future negotiations and trade agreements, particularly in light of India’s strategic partnerships with other countries, including Russia.