U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance defended the Trump administration’s steep tariffs on Indian imports—25% baseline plus a 25% surcharge tied to purchases of Russian crude—arguing they are “aggressive economic leverage” designed to make it harder for Moscow to finance its war in Ukraine, not punish New Delhi. He said Washington is coupling economic pressure with diplomacy and would recalibrate sanctions if Russia meaningfully shifts its posture, framing the move as part of a broader push toward a negotiated end to the conflict. The White House has also signaled a short window to gauge progress in talks, while stressing that India remains an important partner even amid disagreements over energy ties with Russia. The tariff hikes have begun to bite at home in India, where export-reliant sectors such as the diamond industry in Surat report layoffs and stalled orders as costs for U.S. buyers rise.