India Pauses US Arms Purchases After #TRUMP ’s Tariffs ⚔️

India has put a hold on plans to buy weapons and aircraft from the US in response to President Trump's tariff hike on Indian goods, according to reports. These tariffs, imposed this week, were seen as retaliation for India's oil imports from Russia.

The decision to delay military purchases, which included Javelin antitank missiles and Stryker combat vehicles, follows Trump’s 25% tariff increase, pushing the total duty on Indian exports to 50%. India had been planning a trip to Washington for a major defence announcement, but it has now been canceled.

However, India's government denied these reports, calling them "false and fabricated," and insisted that procurement is proceeding normally. Officials say the delays are linked to clarity on US tariffs and the direction of bilateral relations, with no official halt on purchases yet.

The conflict comes after Trump accused India of funding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine through its oil purchases, further souring relations between the two countries. Despite this, India remains engaged in talks with the US, especially regarding defence. India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had been expected to announce a $3.6bn deal for Boeing P8I aircraft and other naval systems, but the visit was postponed.

India has long been a key arms importer, traditionally relying on Russia, but has started shifting towards Western suppliers like the US, Israel, and France. Yet, Moscow continues to offer weapons like the S-500 missile system, which India is considering.

As tensions rise, India maintains its stance on its oil trade and strategic autonomy while continuing its defense relationship with the US. Though relations are strained, India’s interest in balancing alliances with both Russia and the West shows the complexity of the situation.

US-India ties are at a crossroads, with India pushing back against US tariffs,

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