India–US Relations: Why Modi Is Skipping the ASEAN Summit | “India Is Being Penalised Twice” | Barkha Dutt

The move comes as Washington imposes steep tariffs—up to 50%—on Indian exports while pressuring New Delhi to reduce imports of discounted Russian crude oil. Despite a friendly Diwali call between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi, a face-to-face meeting on the sidelines of the summit now appears off the table.

Ambassador Singh explained that India is unlikely to have made any secret commitment to end Russian oil imports but noted that U.S. sanctions on Russian firms like Rosneft will automatically limit India’s ability to pay for such oil. This, he said, may incidentally reduce tensions without India surrendering its strategic autonomy.

However, Singh cautioned that India faces a “double whammy”—higher energy prices and continued U.S. tariffs. He stressed the importance of keeping ties with both Russia and the U.S. while ensuring India’s independence in global decision-making.

Concluding the discussion, Barkha Dutt highlighted that India’s challenge is to maintain its strategic balance—safeguarding national interests without compromising on partnerships that define its long-term global standing.