Former NSA John Bolton says tariffs on India ‘worst outcome’ for US

By Anjali Sharma

WASHINGTON – Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton on Sunday said that President Trump’s tariffs on India have backfired, pushed New Delhi closer to Russia and China and undermined decades of US diplomatic efforts.

Bolton said that the tariffs imposed on India by President Donald Trump have backfired, caused the “worst possible outcome” for the US.

In a post on X, he said, “Trump’s leniency on the Chinese, and heavy-handed tariffs on India, jeopardize decades of American efforts to bring India away from Russia and China.”

He also tweeted his statement given to the CNN where he said it was ironic that the secondary tariff, intended to hurt Russia, could instead push India closer to Russia and China, and perhaps lead them to negotiate together against the US.”

Russia and China have backed or agreed with the Modi government’s stand, as both try to counter US influence in a more multi polar world.

China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, seemed to aim a jab at Donald Trump on X, said “Give a bully an inch, and he will take a mile,” on reacting Trump’s tariff on India

Russian spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that every country has the right to choose its own trade partners.

Peskov added, “We hear many statements that are in fact threats, attempts to force countries to cut trade relations with Russia. We do not consider such statements to be legal.”

The latest round of tariffs, an additional 25 per cent hike, was announced by US President Donald Trump citing India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil as the primary reason. This comes on top of a previous 25 per cent tariff that came into effect on July 20.

India Ministry of External Affairs called the move Trump’s decision “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable”, stated that India’s energy needs and strategic autonomy must be respected.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his government’s unwavering support for India’s farmers, livestock holders, and fishermen.

Modi said, “The interest of farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise with the interests of its farmers, livestock holders, and fishermen. And I know that I will have to pay a huge price for this personally, but I am ready. India is ready, for the sake of the country’s farmers, fishermen and livestock holders.”

Trump ruled out negotiations with India on the tariffs said “No, not until we get it resolved”, when a reporter asked him if he expected more negotiations following the announcement of the 50 per cent tariff that is to take effect on August 27.