Prime Minister Narendra Modi has convened an emergency meeting of the Union Cabinet at 1 pm on Friday, amid rising tensions with the United States over trade tariffs. The meeting comes a day after US President Donald Trump announced an additional 25% duty on Indian imports, raising the total tariffs to 50%.

The latest hike follows a 25% tariff already imposed on July 20. Trump cited India’s continued purchase of Russian crude oil as the main reason for the decision and ruled out any trade deal discussions until the tariff dispute is resolved.

Government sources indicate that the Cabinet will deliberate on India’s response and outline its strategic course of action in the wake of the escalating trade row.

In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs criticised the US move, calling it “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” The ministry emphasised that India’s energy requirements and strategic autonomy must be respected, particularly in light of its ongoing oil trade with Russia.