A group of U.S. lawmakers has urged President Donald Trump to take immediate steps to reset and repair the country’s partnership with India following recent tariff measures that have strained relations. In a joint letter addressed to President Trump, the lawmakers stated that “recent actions by your administration have strained relations with the world’s largest democracy, creating negative consequences for both countries,” and called for swift action to restore balance in the bilateral relationship.
The lawmakers highlighted that in late August 2025, under Trump’s leadership, tariffs on Indian goods were raised to as high as 50 percent, combining initial 25 percent “reciprocal” tariffs with an additional 25 percent duty in response to India’s energy purchases from Russia. They argued that these measures have hurt Indian manufacturers, raised prices for American consumers, and damaged the intricate supply chains that American companies depend on.
The letter emphasized the importance of the U.S.-India economic relationship, noting that the trading partnership “supports hundreds of thousands of jobs in both countries.” It warned that the tariff escalation could push India closer to “regimes hostile to the United States, including China and Russia,” thereby undermining Washington’s strategic interests.
The lawmakers called for renewed dialogue and a comprehensive review of the policy to restore balance in the bilateral relationship.