New Delhi/Washington: Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has warned President Donald Trump that escalating tariffs on India could lead to a “strategic disaster” for Washington, days before a steep new levy takes effect.
In an opinion piece for Newsweek co-authored with Hudson Institute fellow Bill Drexel, Haley described the situation as a “troubling inflexion point” in US–India ties. “Losing India would be a strategic disaster for America and the free world,” she wrote, urging Trump to act swiftly to mend relations with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“India should not be buying oil from Russia. But China, an adversary and the number one buyer of Russian and Iranian oil, got a 90-day tariff pause,” Nikki Haley said in a post on X.
“Don’t give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India,” she said.
The warning comes as the US prepares to impose a second round of tariffs on Indian imports. A 25% duty imposed on July 31 will be followed by an additional 25% penalty on August 27, taking the total tariff burden to 50%. The measures were announced after India continued importing Russian oil despite Western sanctions on Moscow.
Haley said that while the US is right to pressure India over Russian oil, equating India with China would be a grave mistake. “India is a prized democratic partner… We cannot let this relationship unravel,” the op-ed stated.
Adding to the tension, the US has cancelled trade talks that were scheduled in New Delhi for August 25–29. The decision signals further strain as both nations struggle to resolve disputes over energy ties and market access.
Haley called for direct talks between Trump and Modi, increased US investment in the relationship and urgent steps to reverse what she called a “downward spiral” before it damages strategic interests. She also underlined India’s importance as an alternative manufacturing hub and a key partner in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific.
India has defended its Russian oil purchases, citing affordability and energy security. Washington, however, insists that continued trade with Moscow undermines global sanctions and emboldens Russia amid the Ukraine conflict.
