Richard Wolff Slams Trump’s Tariffs on India: Says U.S. Is ‘Shooting Itself in the Foot’

Renowned American economist Richard Wolff has sharply criticized the Trump administration's decision to impose 50% tariffs on Indian imports. In an interview with Russia Today on Tuesday, Wolff said the U.S. is trying to act like the "world's tough guy" by targeting India, but in reality, it’s only harming itself. He warned that such aggressive trade moves are likely to push India further into the arms of BRICS – the economic bloc that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa – and make it a stronger alternative to the Western-led global economic order. “The U.S. is isolating itself,” Wolff said. “By slapping high tariffs on Indian goods, Washington is forcing India to deepen ties with other BRICS nations. Just like Russia found new buyers for its energy exports, India will find new markets for its products.” On Wednesday, the U.S. doubled tariffs on Indian imports – up to 50% – citing New Delhi’s continued purchase of discounted oil from Russia. The move has made India one of the most heavily targeted U.S. trade partners, on par with Brazil. Economists warn that such high tariffs could hurt American consumers, businesses, and jobs. During the interview, journalist Rick Sanchez commented that the tariff hike marked a turning point in global politics. “The world just changed,” he said, with Wolff nodding in agreement. “India is now the most populous country in the world, according to the United Nations – it’s overtaken China,” Wolff added. “If the U.S. keeps threatening a nation like India, which has had deep ties with Russia since Soviet times, it's playing a dangerous game.” He described the moment as “historic,” but also “almost comical,” with the U.S. trying to project strength while making decisions that backfire. “It’s the image of the U.S. trying to be the world’s tough guy while shooting itself in the foot,” he said. Peter Navarro Calls Ukraine Conflict “PM Modi’s War” Meanwhile, former White House trade advisor Peter Navarro stirred controversy with comments blaming India for prolonging the Russia-Ukraine war. In an interview with Bloomberg, Navarro accused India of funding the war indirectly by continuing to buy oil from Russia. “Ukraine comes to us and Europe asking for more money. And because of India’s actions, everyone in America is losing—our consumers, businesses, and workers,” Navarro said. “India’s high tariffs are costing Americans jobs and higher wages. Taxpayers are paying the price to fund what is effectively Modi’s war.” He added, “The road to peace runs at least partly through New Delhi.” Navarro also criticized India’s energy policy, calling the country "arrogant" for prioritizing its own needs over aligning with Western democracies. India Responds: Tariffs Are “Unjustified and Unreasonable” India has rejected the U.S. tariffs as “unjustified and unreasonable.” The Indian government has stated that it will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and ensure its economic security, just like any other major global economy

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