Reference News Network, January 5 report: According to the Singapore-based "Lianhe Zaobao" website, January 5 report, US President Trump said on January 5 that if New Delhi does not meet Washington's requirements to limit the purchase of Russian oil, the US may increase tariffs on India.
"Lianhe Zaobao" cited Reuters reports that Trump told reporters on Air Force One, the presidential plane: "Modi is a good man. He knows I'm not happy, so it's important to make me happy."
Regarding India's purchase of Russian oil, Trump said: "They are indeed conducting trade, and we can quickly increase tariffs on them."
The report stated that due to India's large-scale purchase of Russian oil, the US will double the import tariff on Indian goods in 2025, reaching 50%.
Despite the high tariffs, India's exports to the US increased significantly in November 2025, but exports declined by more than 20% between May and November 2025.
The Indian government has asked refiners to disclose weekly the amount of oil purchased from Russia and the US to alleviate American concerns.
Since the implementation of the tariffs, Modi has spoken with Trump at least three times. The Indian commerce minister met with US trade officials last month, but negotiations have not yet made progress.
Original: toutiao.com/article/7591877131588731435/
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