US Senator Lindsey Graham has claimed that India's Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, appealed to him to urge President Donald Trump to relieve tariffs on Indian goods. According to Graham, the Indian envoy cited New Delhi's reduced purchase of Russian crude oil as a reason for the US to ease the 25% tariff imposed on India.

Senator Graham recounted a meeting that took place approximately a month ago at the Indian Ambassador's residence in Washington D.C.. Graham stated that Kwatra focused on India's concerns regarding the economic measures imposed by the United States. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Graham said that Kwatra's primary concern was how India is buying less Russian oil and that he asked Graham to tell President Trump to relieve the 25% tariff.

The Trump administration has imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on Indian goods, with additional penalties targeting countries that support Russia's "war machine" through energy purchases. Cumulative duties in some sectors have reportedly reached 50%. While India has defended its oil imports as a necessity for domestic energy security and global market stability, Graham's statements suggest that Indian diplomats are using reduced import figures as a bargaining chip to negotiate economic relief.

President Trump acknowledged India's efforts to reduce Russian oil imports. However, he also warned that the U.S. could quickly raise tariffs on India if it does not cooperate on issues related to Russian oil. Trump stated that Prime Minister Modi is a good man and that Modi knew it was important to make him happy.

Graham implied that India's energy decisions were influenced by Trump's trade policy. He stated his belief that Trump's tariffs are the primary reason India is buying substantially less Russian oil. He added that pressure must be put on Russian President Vladimir Putin's customers to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Kwatra hosted several US Senators at India House last month, including Graham. The discussions covered various aspects of the India-US partnership, from energy and defense cooperation to trade and important global developments.

These developments coincide with ongoing negotiations between Indian and US officials aimed at resolving the long-standing trade impasse.