Core Viewpoint - The article discusses India's strategic response to U.S. tariffs and pressure regarding its oil imports from Russia, highlighting India's reliance on Russian oil and its broader geopolitical maneuvering in the face of American economic policies [3][5][11]. Group 1: U.S. Tariffs and India's Response - The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods due to stalled trade agreements and an additional 25% tariff citing India's purchase of Russian oil, leading to some Indian products facing tax rates as high as 50% [3][5]. - In retaliation, India announced tariffs of up to 150% on 28 categories of U.S. imports, including agricultural and chemical products, and initiated a $2.7 billion export subsidy plan [11][15]. - India's external trade with the U.S. is relatively low, constituting only 4.2% of its GDP, which provides it with leverage to resist U.S. pressure [15]. Group 2: Energy Security and Economic Implications - India imports a significant amount of oil from Russia, with the share rising from 2% before the Ukraine conflict to 34% by September 2025, equating to a daily supply of 1.6 million barrels [7][9]. - The price advantage of Russian oil, which is $89 cheaper per ton compared to Middle Eastern oil, has saved India approximately $5 billion in foreign exchange in the 2022 fiscal year [9]. - India's dependence on oil imports is high at 85%, making the energy security chain critical, and switching suppliers could lead to increased domestic inflation and significant costs [9][11]. Group 3: Geopolitical Maneuvering - India has extended its long-term contracts with Russia for oil until 2035, benefiting from discounts and the ability to settle transactions in local currency to avoid sanctions [13]. - The country has also positioned itself as a "middleman" by refining Russian oil and selling it to Western markets, becoming the second-largest exporter of refined oil products in 2023, generating around $16 billion in profits [13]. - India's stance has garnered support from other developing nations, as seen in a joint statement with Brazil and South Africa opposing unilateral sanctions at the G20 foreign ministers' meeting [15].