Trump warns India and Russia: “Dead economies can go down together” after 25% tariff move

US President Donald Trump has issued a sharp warning to India and Russia following his latest announcement of a 25% tariff on Indian imports.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump accused the two nations of maintaining unfair trade practices and criticized their continued alignment, especially amid global tensions.

Trump claimed that India’s “high tariffs” and its growing partnership with Russia are detrimental to American economic interests.

He stated, “India and Russia can take their dead economies down together,” suggesting that both nations are on a path of decline if they continue with what he perceives as protectionist and anti-Western policies.

The president’s comment comes days after his campaign revealed plans to reimpose and expand tariffs on several countries if he returns to office in 2025.

India, which already faces scrutiny in Washington over its energy ties with Moscow and barriers to US companies, is one of the major targets. Trump’s statement is being seen as both a political and economic signal ahead of the US presidential election.

India’s Commerce Ministry has not issued an official response but is reportedly assessing the impact of the 25% tariff.

Diplomatic sources indicate that India will defend its trade policies and point to its growing consumer market and stable demand for Western technology and energy products as a counterbalance to the criticism.

The Trump campaign also claimed to have struck new trade agreements with the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom, putting pressure on countries like India to fall in line or risk being sidelined.

The president further surprised observers by revealing a new oil agreement with Pakistan, a move seen as a strategic reshuffle in the South Asian region, potentially affecting India's energy and diplomatic calculus.

If implemented, these tariff measures and diplomatic shifts could impact Indian exporters, tech firms, and energy deals, particularly those with Russia.

Middle-class consumers and small businesses in India may face the brunt of any retaliatory trade restrictions or price surges on imported goods.