US President Donald Trump has accused China and India of being the “primary funders” of the Ukraine war, claiming their continued purchase of Russian oil is indirectly financing Moscow’s military campaign.
Addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Trump said, “China and India are the primary funders of the ongoing war by continuing to purchase Russian oil.” His comments came during a speech lasting over an hour, where conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, dominated discussions.
The remarks followed Washington’s recent decision to impose steep tariffs on Indian imports of Russian oil. The US raised duties by an additional 25 per cent in July, bringing the total tariff to 50 per cent—among the highest globally. Trump argued that India’s oil trade with Russia undermines collective international pressure on Moscow.
India and the US have been engaged in negotiations toward an interim trade deal, with five rounds of talks completed so far. However, the proposed sixth round in August was postponed. Earlier this year, both countries launched discussions for a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), aiming to conclude its first stage by late 2025.
Despite progress in other areas, India has resisted US demands to open its agricultural and dairy markets, citing the sector’s importance for domestic livelihoods. The escalating tariffs, coupled with Trump’s sharp remarks at the UNGA, signal growing trade tensions even as New Delhi and Washington continue to explore avenues for cooperation.
