The Defence Ministry on Friday rejected a news report alleging that India has paused its planned defence procurements from the United States after US President Donald Trump’s latest tariff decision. According to ANI, ministry officials have said, “The news reports on India pausing the talks related to defence purchases with the US are false and fabricated. It is clarified that the various cases of procurement are being progressed as per the extant procedures.”
Earlier today, a Reuters report claimed that India had paused talks to acquire US-made weapons and aircraft. It stated that the step was a sign of diplomatic discontent after Trump announced a 25% tariff hike on Indian goods, bringing total duties to 50%. The same report further suggested that Defence Minister Rajnath Singh‘s upcoming visit to Washington had been cancelled due to the tensions.
Russian oil in India
President Trump’s August 6 tariff announcement cited India’s continued imports of Russian oil. Trump’s top aide also accused New Delhi of indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Despite the growing trade tensions, officials maintain that defence negotiations remain unaffected and are continuing through formal channels. The US remains one of India’s key defence partners, with several high-value deals in progress.
The United States has cited national security and foreign policy concerns, particularly India’s continued imports of Russian oil, as the reason behind its decision to impose additional tariffs.
Trump’s tariff pressure on India
President Donald Trump on Thursday ruled out any trade negotiations with India until the ongoing tariff dispute is resolved. This follows his administration’s move to double tariffs on a range of Indian imports.
Despite the escalating tensions, the US State Department maintained that “India is a strategic partner” and assured that both nations remain engaged in a “full and frank dialogue”, ANI reported. When asked whether China and other BRICS nations were trying to mount a coordinated pushback against US trade actions, the department reiterated that discussions with India would continue.