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‘PM Modi not that happy with me’: Donald Trump reveals India's response on tariffs

US President Donald Trump says PM Modi is unhappy with high American tariffs on Indian goods. Trump linked the penalties to New Delhi's purchase of Russian oil.

PM Modi unhappy with US tariffs Trump reveals trade friction
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(Photograph: AI)

PM Modi unhappy with US tariffs Trump reveals trade friction

US President Donald Trump said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is "not that happy" with him because India is paying high tariffs. Trump noted that despite a good personal relationship, the trade penalties remain a point of contention.

Russian oil at the centre Energy trade triggers penalties
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(Photograph: AI)

Russian oil at the centre Energy trade triggers penalties

The President stated that the tariffs are directly tied to India's purchases of Russian crude oil. He claimed New Delhi has now reduced these imports "very substantially" to address American concerns.

Tariffs reaching 50 per cent Indian exports face heavy duties
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(Photograph: X)

Tariffs reaching 50 per cent Indian exports face heavy duties

Washington has imposed tariffs as high as 50 per cent on various Indian exports. This includes a 25 per cent reciprocal duty and an additional 25 per cent penalty for buying Russian energy.

Pressure for tariff relief Indian envoy seeks duty cuts
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(Photograph: X)

Pressure for tariff relief Indian envoy seeks duty cuts

Senator Lindsey Graham claimed the Indian Ambassador sought relief from the 25 per cent punitive tariff during a meeting in December 2025. Graham argued that the threat of tariffs has pushed India to buy less Russian oil.

India's oil import shift Russian crude volumes decline
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(Photograph: AFP)

India's oil import shift Russian crude volumes decline

Reports indicate that Indian refiners reduced Russian oil imports from June to October 2025 as trade pressure intensified. Recent estimates suggest Russian imports could soon dip below 1 million barrels per day.

Trump’s "Happiness" demand Diplomacy linked to trade
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(Photograph: PM Narendra Modi Youtube Channel)

Trump’s "Happiness" demand Diplomacy linked to trade

Trump asserted that PM Modi knew he was "not happy" and understood it was important to make him happy regarding trade. He warned that the US can increase these trade barriers very quickly if necessary.

Military hardware delays Apache helicopter deliveries flagged
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(Photograph: AFP)

Military hardware delays Apache helicopter deliveries flagged

Trump also mentioned that India raised concerns over a five-year delay in receiving Apache helicopters. He stated that his administration is now "changing it" to ensure the 68 ordered helicopters are delivered.