US legislators have issued a joint appeal to President Donald Trump, strongly advising him to take swift action to repair the United States’ deteriorating relationship with India. The lawmakers are particularly concerned about the recent imposition of substantial tariffs on Indian goods, which they believe are damaging trade, increasing consumer expenses, and undermining the strategic alliance between the two democratic nations. The letter warns of adverse consequences for both countries if the current trade disputes persist.
The core of the issue involves the Trump administration’s decision in late August 2025 to significantly raise tariffs on Indian imports, with some reaching as high as 50 percent. This tariff hike included an initial 25 percent “reciprocal” duty, compounded by an additional 25 percent duty levied in retaliation for India’s continued energy trade with Russia. Lawmakers argue these measures are negatively impacting Indian industries and simultaneously making goods more expensive for American consumers. They note that these actions disrupt crucial supply chains relied upon by US companies and inflate prices for common products.
From a strategic perspective, the lawmakers cautioned that prolonged conflict could push India towards nations adversarial to US interests, such as China and Russia. They underscored India’s vital role as a stabilizing factor in the Indo-Pacific region and a critical partner in defense collaboration, emphasizing its participation in the Quad alongside Japan and Australia. The shared democratic values between the US and India are highlighted as a unique strength, essential for advancing common goals and fostering a balanced global order.
The congressional group is advocating for a policy of “recalibration, not confrontation” in US-India relations. They urge President Trump to reaffirm America’s dedication to its partnership with India and to undertake a comprehensive reassessment of the current tariff measures. Renewed diplomatic engagement is seen as key to rebuilding trust and strengthening the bilateral relationship. The appeal, signed by prominent figures like Deborah K Ross, Ro Khanna, and Pramila Jayapal, reflects a growing consensus in Washington that recent trade actions risk undoing years of progress in fostering stability and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.