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Tariffs for purchasing Russian oil unfortunate: Former U.S. NSA backs closer ties with India
Trump claimed New Delhi adjusted its policy after understanding Washington's displeasure over continued Russian energy purchases.
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IANS - Tue, 06, Jan 2026
- 09:03 EST
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Former U.S. National Security Advisor John Bolton attends a press conference by U.S. President Donald Trump on the second day of the NATO Summit in Brussels, Belgium, on July 12, 2018. / Courtesy: Xinhua/Ye Pingfan/IANS
Former U.S. National Security Advisor (NSA) John Bolton has termed Washington's decision to impose tariffs against India for purchasing Russian oil before holding negotiations with New Delhi as "unfortunate."
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Bolton called for restoration of a closer relationship between India and the U.S., asserting that US President Donald Trump has damaged the interests of Washington all around the world.
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"I think it's been unfortunate for quite some time, going back to announcing the tariffs against India before negotiations. He really had a chance to conclude for adding the additional tariffs on India, but not on China or Turkey or anyone else for purchasing Russian oil, which has been unfortunate. I'd like to see a closer relationship restored because in it we have a mutual interest in worrying about China's hegemonic aspirations," Bolton told IANS.
Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that New Delhi has adjusted its policy after understanding Washington's displeasure over continued Russian energy purchases. He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "good man" for "cutting down" the purchase of Russian oil.
"They (Indians) wanted to make me happy, basically. (PM) Modi's a very good man. Yes, he's a good guy. He knew I was not happy, and it was important to make me happy. They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on that very quickly," Trump said in response to a question that was initially being responded to by Senator Lindsey Graham, who was travelling with him on Air Force One.
When asked about his assessment of the Trump administration's first year in office, Bolton responded, "I think the economy is good, which is good for any incumbent president, but I think he's done a lot of damage to U.S. interests around the world, and I hope that damage can be repaired, but it's still three years to go."
Trump will complete the first year of his second term later this month. Issues like tariffs, trade, and immigration aptly sum up the 47th U.S. president's approach to governance. He has repeatedly portrayed himself as a leader who deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end or defuse conflicts in various regions, including Gaza.
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