Overview

• The new rate took effect on August 27 via Executive Order 14329 and a CBP notice, applying higher duties broadly to Indian-origin goods entering the United States.
• Top advisers escalated public pressure on New Delhi, with Peter Navarro labeling the conflict “Modi’s war” and Kevin Hassett warning the administration will not ease off unless India curbs purchases of Russian oil; President Trump also threatened an “economic war” if talks fail.
• Reuters-reported discussions between U.S. and Russian officials included potential energy incentives, such as an Exxon Mobil return to Sakhalin‑1 and sales of U.S. LNG equipment, described by sources as tied to peace negotiations.
• India condemned the move as unfair and signaled no plans to halt Russian crude imports, while exporters reported order cancellations and market stress in sectors like textiles, gems and jewelry, shrimp, leather, and furniture.
• Democrats on the House Foreign Affairs Committee criticized the tariffs as harming Americans and sabotaging ties, as analysts warned of a tilt toward Beijing with Modi set to visit China for the SCO summit.