PM Modi asked Putin for strategy on Ukraine, mentioned 50% US tariffs, claims NATO chief News24 –

US President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50 per cent tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases is having a “big impact” on Moscow, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has said. He also claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought an explanation from Russia on its strategy in Ukraine, as “India is being hit with tariffs.”

“Trump’s tariffs on India are having a big impact on Russia. Delhi is on the phone with Putin, and Narendra Modi is asking him to explain his strategy on Ukraine because India is being hit with tariffs,” he told CNN on the sidelines of the UNGA session in New York.

The US president recently imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India, followed by another 25 per cent as a penalty for New Delhi buying Russian oil. Trump said India was supporting Russia’s attacks on Ukraine by continuing to purchase the oil.

On September 10, Trump said that India and the US are “continuing negotiations to address the trade barriers”.

“I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi, in the upcoming weeks. I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion for both our countries,” he posted on Truth Social.

PM Modi responded to Trump’s remarks saying he was “confident that our trade negotiations will pave the way for unlocking the limitless potential of the India-US partnership”. India and the US are “close friends and natural partners”, he wrote on X.

“Our teams are working to conclude these discussions at the earliest. I am also looking forward to speaking with President Trump. We will work together to secure a brighter, more prosperous future for both our people,” PM Modi said.

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