US official says Trump, Modi ties strong; Russian oil tariff row to be resolved

Washington: A senior White House official said on Tuesday that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi share “very good” ties and that the two leaders will resolve the current friction over India’s purchases of Russian oil, including the threat of a 100% tariff.

Peter Navarro, the White House trade adviser, told reporters that the matter is a “work in progress” and that both sides are engaged in discussions. He did not specify a timeline for a resolution, but stressed that the relationship between the two leaders remains strong.

Navarro’s remarks follow earlier criticism

Navarro’s latest comments come weeks after he publicly criticised India for its continued imports of Russian crude, which have continued despite Western sanctions on Moscow. According to reports, his earlier remarks drew a sharp response from Indian officials, with one account describing how he was “firebombed” by India over the issue.

“Don't do that,” Navarro recalled being told, according to a report in the Hindustan Times. He acknowledged that the exchange was heated but said the underlying relationship has not been damaged.

India’s Russian oil imports under scrutiny

India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of Russian oil since the invasion of Ukraine, taking advantage of discounted prices. This has put New Delhi at odds with Washington, which has sought to tighten the screws on Moscow’s energy revenues.

The Trump administration had earlier threatened to impose a 100% tariff on Indian goods if New Delhi did not reduce its reliance on Russian crude. That threat has now been softened, at least in tone, by Navarro’s latest statement.

Trade talks expected to continue

Officials from both sides are expected to hold further talks in the coming weeks to iron out differences over energy purchases and trade tariffs. The White House has not confirmed any specific meeting between Trump and Modi, but Navarro’s remarks suggest that direct dialogue between the two leaders is likely.

“They will work that out,” Navarro said, referring to the tariff dispute. He added that the broader trade relationship between the US and India remains important to both economies.

What happens next

The two governments are expected to continue negotiations, with India seeking to balance its energy needs with its strategic ties to Washington. Whether the 100% tariff threat is formally withdrawn or replaced by a phased arrangement remains to be seen. Observers will watch for any announcement from either side in the lead-up to a possible bilateral meeting.