Trump’s Tariffs Can Push India Closer to Russia & China: Ex-US NSA
In a recent statement, former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 50% tariffs on India, warning that it may have unintended consequences and push India closer to Russia and China. This move has sparked concern among many, as it could have significant implications for the global economy and international relations.
Bolton’s comments come at a time when the US-India relationship is already under strain due to various issues, including trade tensions and differences over issues like Kashmir and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The tariffs, which were imposed in response to India’s decision to restrict US agricultural products and pharmaceuticals, have been seen as a provocative move by many.
In an interview, Bolton stated that Trump’s “heavy-handed tariffs on India jeopardise decades of American efforts to bring India away from Russia and China.” He warned that the tariffs could have a significant impact on the US-India relationship and push India closer to these two countries, which have traditionally been rivals of the US.
Bolton’s comments are significant, as he has long been a vocal advocate for strengthening the US-India relationship. As US National Security Advisor, he played a key role in shaping the Trump administration’s policy towards India and was instrumental in promoting the US-India Strategic Partnership.
The US-India relationship has undergone significant changes in recent years, with both countries increasing their cooperation on various issues, including defense, trade, and counter-terrorism. However, despite these advances, the relationship remains complex and is influenced by various factors, including the US-India-Pakistan relationship and differences over issues like Kashmir and China’s BRI.
India has long been seen as a key player in the US strategy to contain China’s growing influence in the region. The US has been seeking to strengthen its ties with India to promote stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region, which is increasingly seen as a key battleground in the global competition between the US and China.
However, Trump’s tariffs on India have raised concerns that the US may be undermining its own efforts to strengthen the US-India relationship. India has long been seen as a key partner for the US in the region, and the US has been seeking to promote its strategic interests in the region through its ties with India.
India’s response to the tariffs has been muted, with the country’s government saying that it will take all necessary steps to protect its interests. However, the tariffs are likely to have a significant impact on India’s economy, which is already facing challenges due to a slowdown in growth and a decline in exports.
The tariffs are also likely to have a broader impact on the global economy, as they are likely to increase trade tensions and undermine the global trade order. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has been seeking to promote free trade and reduce tariffs, but the US-India tariffs have raised concerns that the global trade order is under threat.
In conclusion, Trump’s tariffs on India are likely to have significant implications for the US-India relationship and the global economy. While the tariffs are seen as a response to India’s restrictions on US agricultural products and pharmaceuticals, they could have unintended consequences and push India closer to Russia and China.
As Bolton has warned, the tariffs could jeopardise decades of American efforts to promote the US-India relationship and undermine the global trade order. The US and India must find a way to resolve their differences and promote their strategic interests in the region, rather than resorting to tariffs and other forms of protectionism.
