Haley Warns U.S.: Don’t Damage Ties With India
Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has urged the United States to not damage its strategic partnership with India. In a sharp remark directed at President Donald Trump, Haley said the U.S. should not “give China a pass and burn a relationship with a strong ally like India.”
China’s Free Pass Versus Tariffs on India
Haley expressed concern over what she called a double standard. While China continues to import oil from Russia and Iran and still received a 90-day pause on tariffs from the U.S., India is being targeted for similar imports with threats of steep tariffs. She called out this inconsistency, warning it sends the wrong message to allies.
Trump’s Tariff Threats Stir Diplomatic Backlash
President Trump recently declared that he would impose high tariffs on Indian imports within 24 hours, citing India’s purchase of Russian oil. He accused India of “fueling the war machine,” a statement that has drawn strong reactions both in India and abroad.
India has pushed back against these claims, stating that many Western countries, including the U.S. itself, continue to maintain economic ties with Russia. Officials argue that singling out India is unfair and risks damaging a key democratic partnership.
Economic Impact and Strategic Concerns
Economic analysts have warned that these tariffs could have real consequences. India’s growth projections have already been revised slightly downward. Sectors like textiles, auto components, pharmaceuticals, and gems and jewellery could face losses if access to the American market becomes restricted.
Strategic experts also note that India has played a stabilizing role in the Indo-Pacific, and pushing the country away could benefit adversarial powers like China.
Haley Urges Support for Democratic Allies
Haley concluded her remarks by stating that the U.S. should stand by democratic partners like India rather than isolate them. She emphasized the need for consistent, values-driven foreign policy and warned that undermining India would only strengthen China’s global position.
