US official says Trump and Modi will resolve potential Russian oil tariff issue

White House Trade Adviser Peter Navarro stated on Tuesday that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will resolve issues related to potential US tariffs on India's purchase of Russian oil. The remarks were made following the passage of a bill in the US Senate that grants the President authority to levy 100 percent tariffs on the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil. The legislation identifies these purchases as a source of funding for the conflict in Ukraine.

Navarro noted that India did not engage in Russian oil trade prior to the outbreak of the war in 2022 but began doing so afterward. The potential tariffs represent a significant diplomatic challenge, though officials have expressed confidence in the working relationship between the two leaders to navigate the situation. The bill remains a point of focus as the US seeks to curb international financial support for Russia's military operations.