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As the date of the meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump approaches, global expectations surrounding the summit are rising. India is closely watching the upcoming meeting in Alaska. Simultaneously, the Indian government has begun strategizing to address the recent 50% tariffs imposed on India by the US president.
With the implementation of tariffs drawing near, the Indian government hopes for a swift resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war. The US has imposed additional punitive tariffs on India due to its purchase of crude oil from Russia. The US asserts that India’s oil purchases are financially bolstering Russia during the conflict.
India’s primary concern is to shield its citizens, particularly small businesses, from the burden of these tariffs. Sources indicate that an excessively transactional approach is not in India’s best interest, especially when it could impact the country’s people or resources. Therefore, Indian government negotiators are working diligently with the US government to have the tariffs removed, while also exercising caution against speculation.
Government sources suggest it would be inaccurate to assume that India does not understand President Trump in his second term. Indian officials are well-versed in Trump’s operating style.
President Trump has stated that he is rapidly moving forward with plans to meet with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Alaska this Friday. This will be a sudden summit where Trump will once again pursue his goal of ending Putin’s war in Ukraine through negotiation.
Speaking to the press at the White House on Monday, Trump said, “Maybe in the first two minutes, I’ll know whether a deal can be made or not.” When a journalist asked how, Trump replied: “Because that’s what I do. I make deals.”
