WASHINGTON, D.C.: The Trump administration’s decision to impose a sweeping 50% tariff on Indian goods has ignited a firestorm of criticism within the United States, with lawmakers and foreign policy experts from across the political spectrum warning that the move risks damaging one of America’s most crucial strategic partnerships. The tariffs, which took effect on Wednesday, August 27, have been widely condemned for what critics call a contradictory and self-defeating policy.
The China Exemption and Political Backlash
A key point of contention is the administration’s rationale for the tariffs, which it claims are in retaliation for India’s purchase of Russian oil. The House Foreign Affairs Committee Democrats took to X to accuse the Trump administration of “hurting Americans & sabotaging the US-India relationship,” noting the glaring inconsistency of targeting India while “sparing China and other countries buying larger quantities” of Russian energy. The committee questioned the administration’s true motives, suggesting the policy is “almost like it’s not about Ukraine at all.”
The criticism is not limited to Democrats. Former Vice President Mike Pence, a once-ally of Trump, distanced himself from the policy, posting, “American companies and American consumers pay the cost of American tariffs.” His comments, which back free trade principles, were seen as a direct challenge to the President’s economic approach.
‘Strategic Disaster’ for US Foreign Policy
Prominent Republican figures and foreign policy experts have also voiced deep alarm. Kurt Campbell, a former deputy secretary of state, described the U.S.-India partnership as “America’s most important relationship in the 21st century” and warned that Trump’s actions risk humiliating New Delhi. Similarly, Nikki Haley, a former UN ambassador, called the move a “strategic disaster,” arguing that weakening ties with India undermines Washington’s ability to counter China’s growing influence.
John Bolton, who served as Trump’s national security adviser, labeled the tariffs a “mistake” that could push India closer to the Beijing-Moscow axis. In a previous interview, Bolton called the US approach toward India “confused,” criticizing the decision to penalize New Delhi while exempting China. This selective enforcement, he argued, is an “unforced error.”
Former US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster also expressed concern, calling the sudden announcement a “diplomatic surprise” that would not only erode mutual trust but also drive up costs for American consumers.
As the political and economic fallout continues, the criticism highlights a deep divide in Washington over the administration’s foreign and trade policies. While the Trump administration frames the tariffs as a necessary tool to enforce its “America First” agenda, a growing number of voices from both sides of the aisle warn that the move could have long-term strategic consequences for the U.S. and its position on the global stage.