Russia and China have backed or agreed with the Modi government’s stand, as both try to counter US influence in a more multipolar world.
On Thursday, the day the US’s first 25% tariff on Indian goods began, China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, seemed to aim a jab at Donald Trump on X, saying, “Give a bully an inch, and he will take a mile.”
Give the bully an inch, he will take a mile. pic.x.com/IMdIM9u1nd
— Xu Feihong (@China_Amb_India) August 7, 2025
Meanwhile, on August 5, Russian spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that every country has the right to choose its own trade partners.
Peskov added, “We hear many statements that are in fact threats, attempts to force countries to cut trade relations with Russia. We do not consider such statements to be legal.”
Trump rules out tariff talks with India as 50 per cent hike looms
The latest round of tariffs, an additional 25 per cent hike, was announced by US President Donald Trump on Wednesday, citing India’s continued imports of Russian crude oil as the primary reason. This comes on top of a previous 25 per cent tariff that came into effect on July 20.
Responding sharply to the US move, the Ministry of External Affairs called the decision “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable”, stating that India’s energy needs and strategic autonomy must be respected.
In a public statement shortly after the new tariffs took effect, Prime Minister Modi reiterated his government’s unwavering support for India’s farmers, livestock holders, and fishermen.
Speaking at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference in Delhi on Thursday, he said, “The interest of farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise with the interests of its farmers, livestock holders, and fishermen. And I know that I will have to pay a huge price for this personally, but I am ready. India is ready, for the sake of the country’s farmers, fishermen and livestock holders.”
Trump ruled out negotiations with India on the tariffs on Thursday. “No, not until we get it resolved”, he said when a reporter asked him if he expected more negotiations following the announcement of the 50 per cent tariff that is to take effect on August 27.