'Modi Can't, Shouldn't Bend The Knee To Trump': India Tariffs Spark Bipartisan Alarm In US

Last Updated:August 08, 2025, 16:25 IST

Trump’s announcement of a 50% tariff on Indian imports has triggered strong criticism from across the American political spectrum

Kurt Campbell, former US deputy secretary of state in the Biden administration, and Mike Pence, former US Vice President. (AFP file photos)

US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 50% tariff on Indian imports has triggered strong criticism from across the American political spectrum, with both Republicans and Democrats warning that the move risks damaging one of the most important international partnerships of the 21st century.

Among the most vocal critics was Kurt Campbell, former US Deputy Secretary of State and a key architect of past Indo-Pacific policy.

In an interview with CNBC , Campbell warned that the US-India relationship is now under serious threat due to Trump’s tariff move.

“America’s most important relationship in the 21st century is with India. Much of that is now at risk," Campbell said. “The way President Trump has spoken about India and PM Modi has put the Indian govt in a difficult position."

In a strong statement, Campbell added, “Prime Minister Modi cannot and should not bend the knee to President Trump."

He also cautioned that efforts by Washington to pressure New Delhi on issues like its ties with Russia could backfire. “If you tell India that it has to sacrifice its relationship with Russia, then Indian strategists are going to do the exact opposite," he said.

Adding to the criticism was Trump’s former Vice President, Mike Pence, who took to social media platform X to voice his opposition.

“American companies and American consumers pay the cost of American tariffs," Pence posted, backing free trade principles and warning of the economic harm caused by such moves.

Pence also shared an article highlighting how Ford had paid $800 million in tariffs over just three months, despite building most of its vehicles within the US. His post appeared to be a direct challenge to Trump’s economic policies, even though the two once served together in office.

India has long been seen as a vital partner for the US, particularly in counterbalancing China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region. Over recent years, both Democratic and Republican administrations have worked to deepen ties with New Delhi through defence cooperation, trade, and strategic dialogue.

However, the new tariffs risk setting back those efforts. Experts warn that the decision may not only strain diplomatic relations but also push India to seek closer ties with Beijing or Moscow.

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

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