Trump’s Tariffs Push Modi To Question Putin On His Ukraine Strategy: NATO Head's Big Claim

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has stated that U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariffs on India, imposed in response to its purchase of Russian oil, are significantly affecting Moscow.

Speaking to CNN during the UN General Assembly in New York, Rutte said the move has prompted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek clarity from Russian President Vladimir Putin on his Ukraine strategy.

"This tariff hits Russia directly," Rutte said. "It puts Delhi on the phone with Moscow, with Modi asking Putin, 'I support you, but what's your strategy? I'm now facing 50% tariffs from the U.S.'"

There has been no official response from either New Delhi or Moscow regarding Rutte's remarks. Last month, President Trump levied a 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, along with an additional 25% penalty targeting India's continued energy trade with Russia. He accused India of indirectly supporting Russia's military actions in Ukraine through its oil purchases.

Trump has also urged NATO members to impose steep tariffs-ranging from 50% to 100%-on China and to halt Russian oil imports as a means to pressure Moscow and end the war in Ukraine, which began in February 2022. In a Truth Social post dated September 13, he warned that NATO's inconsistent stance and ongoing oil purchases from Russia undermine the alliance's leverage.
Rutte echoed Trump's sentiment, saying NATO nations "should stop" buying Russian oil.

Despite the tensions, Trump signaled optimism about resolving trade disputes with India, announcing ongoing negotiations aimed at reducing trade barriers between the two countries.

Modi Reaffirms India-Russia Ties

In response to mounting U.S. pressure, Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India's longstanding relationship with Russia. At a trade event in Uttar Pradesh, he said, "With Russia as a partner, we are strengthening a time-tested partnership."

India and Russia have maintained close cooperation for over 70 years, particularly in space, nuclear energy, and defense. India has made clear it will continue importing Russian energy as long as it remains economically viable. According to Bloomberg, no directives have been issued to Indian refiners-public or private-to scale back Russian oil purchases.

During trade discussions with the U.S., Indian officials reportedly suggested that any reduction in Russian imports would require access to alternative sources such as Iran and Venezuela, which are currently under U.S. sanctions.

India's trade minister has also expressed interest in boosting energy imports from the U.S., a move that could help address the trade imbalance-a key concern for the Trump administration.