Trump Strikes Oil Deal with Pakistan, Snubs India amid Tariff Tensions.
In a move that rattles New Delhi, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a trade deal with Pakistan to help develop its oil reserves—just days after slapping a 25% tariff on India and criticizing its continued purchase of Russian crude.
Trump’s remarks on Truth Social included a jab at India’s energy policy, suggesting Pakistan might end up selling oil to its rival. He also dismissed India’s economy as “dead” after failed negotiations over dairy and agriculture access.
Pakistan claims the deal will reduce tariffs on its exports to the U.S., though specifics remain unclear. The country has far fewer proven oil reserves than India, but recent discoveries hint at untapped potential, especially offshore.
Experts say the deal is less about energy and more about geopolitical pressure—Washington signaling that India must reduce Russian imports or risk losing favor. While India’s oil infrastructure and reserves far outpace Pakistan’s, the U.S.-Pak pact could complicate India’s diversification strategy and trade talks with Washington.
