External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that any trade agreement with the United States must respect India’s “red lines” amid ongoing tensions related to tariffs, particularly following the U.S. increase on Indian goods and additional duties on Russian crude oil imports. While acknowledging the strain in U.S.-India relations, Jaishankar suggested that a trade understanding is critical given the U.S. is the world’s largest market. He noted ongoing negotiations to bridge differences, asserting that many aspects of bilateral engagement remain strong. This situation underscores the complexities of U.S.-India relations, reflecting India’s firm stance on its national interests while navigating essential economic ties with the U.S.