EAM hits out at US 'double standards' on Russian oil

EXTERNAL Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that India will not compromise on the interests of its farmers and small producers, even as trade negotiations with the United States continue under the shadow of rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions.

- JAYANTH JACOB @ New Delhi

Speaking at a media event in the city, Jaishankar outlined India's "red lines" in ongoing trade talks with the US, and sharply criticised what he called "unjustified and unreasonable" tariff hikes imposed by the Trump administration.

These include a possible doubling of tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, with an additional 25% penalty linked to India's purchase of Russian oil.

"Trade is really the major issue between our countries," Jaishankar said. "The negotiations are still on. The bottom line is we have some red lines. And those are the interests of our farmers and small producers. That's not something we can compromise on."