New Delhi, Aug.23,2025:Jaishankar’s pointed comeback—“If you don’t like it, don’t buy it”—served as a powerful assertion of India’s right to independent trade decisions

India-Russia Oil Dispute: Unpacking the Buzz

The India-Russia Oil Dispute erupted into the spotlight when U.S. officials accused India of profiting from Russian oil—alleging that India had become a refining “laundromat,” indirectly funding Russia amid the Ukraine war. At the Economic Times World Leaders Forum 2025, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded forcefully, defending India’s sovereign energy choices.

 “If you don’t like it, don’t buy it” — Sovereignty First

Jaishankar’s pointed comeback—“If you don’t like it, don’t buy it”—served as a powerful assertion of India’s right to independent trade decisions. He criticized those in a “pro-business American administration” for meddling in India’s affairs.

Energy Strategy Is Global, Not Just Indian

Beyond national priorities, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s Russian oil purchases also contributed to global energy stability. In 2022, amidst surging prices, allowing India to import Russian crude helped calm markets worldwide.

Tariffs and Trade Talks — India Holds the Red Lines

With the U.S. imposing up to 50% tariffs on Indian goods tied to energy policy, Jaishankar reiterated that while trade discussions with Washington continue, India will not compromise on protecting farmers, small producers, and its strategic autonomy.

Double Standards—Not Just About India

Jaishankar called out the hypocrisy in targeting India alone. Critics have ignored that larger energy importers, including China and the EU, have not faced similar reproach for their Russian oil purchases.

No Third-Party in Indo-Pak Ceasefire

Amid U.S. claims of mediating the 2025 India–Pakistan ceasefire, Jaishankar made it clear that India rejects any third-party intervention. A national consensus has existed for over 50 years—India handles its ties with Pakistan bilaterally.

Operation Sindoor and Direct Military De-escalation

Regarding Operation Sindoor, launched after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, Jaishankar confirmed that the cessation of hostilities resulted directly from military-to-military discussions. There were no links to trade or external pressure.

U.S. Ceasefire Claims and Indian Rebuttal

While the U.S. touted its role in brokering the ceasefire—via President Trump, VP Vance, and Secretary Rubio—India maintained the outcome was reached bilaterally and without diplomatic backdoor deals.

What Lies Ahead for the India-Russia Oil Dispute?

The India-Russia Oil Dispute unveils deeper geopolitical crosscurrents. It reflects India’s balancing act—asserting sovereignty over energy choices while defending national interests in the face of mounting foreign pressure. Simultaneously, India’s unwavering stance on ceasefire diplomacy reinforces its preference for autonomy over dependency. As global tensions simmer and trade spat heats up, India’s resolve and strategic clarity remain unmistakable.

India, Aug.23,2025:India ranks as OpenAI’s second-largest market by user numbers, with weekly active ChatGPT users having roughly quadrupled in the past year. Recognizing this explosive user base, the company recently rolled out an India-specific

The Big Announcement

OpenAI opening India office was confirmed by CEO Sam Altman, who stated the company will launch its first office in New Delhi by the end of 2025. He emphasized that building a local team in India aligns with OpenAI’s commitment to making advanced AI accessible and tailored for India, and with India.

Why India Matters to OpenAI

India ranks as OpenAI’s second-largest market by user numbers, with weekly active ChatGPT users having roughly quadrupled in the past year. Recognizing this explosive user base, the company recently rolled out an India-specific, affordable ChatGPT plan for ₹399/month (approx. $4.60), aiming to expand access among nearly a billion internet users.

Local Hiring and Institutional Setup

OpenAI has legally registered its entity in India and initiated local hiring. The first set of roles includes Account Directors for Digital Natives, Large Enterprise, and Strategics, indicating focus across multiple business verticals. Pragya Misra currently leads public policy and partnerships locally, with the office slated for deepening collaborations with enterprises, developers, and academia.

Policy and Government Synergies

The move aligns with the India government’s IndiaAI Mission, aimed at democratizing AI innovation. IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw welcomed OpenAI’s entry, citing India’s talent, infrastructure, and regulatory backing as key enablers for AI transformation.

Competition and Regulation

Despite strong growth, the journey isn’t without challenges:

• OpenAI faces stiff competition from Google’s Gemini and Perplexity AI, both offering advanced AI features for free to attract users.
• Legal challenges persist. Media outlets and publishers allege unauthorized use of content for AI training—a claim OpenAI denies.
• Internal caution: India’s Finance Ministry has advised employees to avoid AI tools like ChatGPT over data confidentiality concerns.

What This Means for Indian AI Ecosystem

The OpenAI opening India office initiative promises:

• Localized AI services tailored to India’s linguistic, educational, and enterprise needs.
• Stronger collaboration with government, academia, and startups.
• A potential shift in regulatory discourse through local presence—making engagement more proactive.
• Acceleration of digital inclusion across demographics through affordable AI access.

The OpenAI opening India office announcement signals more than expansion—it’s a bold stride toward embedding AI in India’s innovation DNA. With localized services, deeper partnerships, and affordability at its core, OpenAI aims to empower India’s digital future, even as it navigates regulatory scrutiny and market rivalry.

India, Aug.16,2025: Tariffs are a major driver behind the flaring US economy stagflation risk. President Trump’s sweeping tariff measures—including his “Liberation Day” tariffs—have pushed U.S. effective

US Economy Stagflation Risk: A Growing Threat

US economy stagflation risk is now a central concern among economists and policymakers. As inflation lingers and growth falters, the specter of stagflation looms large—posing one of the gravest economic dilemmas of our time.

Tariffs Spark Sticky Inflation

Tariffs are a major driver behind the flaring US economy stagflation risk. President Trump’s sweeping tariff measures—including his “Liberation Day” tariffs—have pushed U.S. effective average tariffs to levels not seen since the 1930s, around 18–18.6%, raising input costs and consumer prices.

Rising wholesale and producer prices are signaling inflation that may soon reach consumers—fueling the stagflation narrative.

Weak Labor Market Sets Alarm Bells Ringing

Simultaneously, the labor market is showing concerning signs. July’s job gain of just 73,000 was well below expectations, and May–June figures were substantially revised downward.

Economist Mark Zandi warns that stagnating labor force growth—driven by immigration restrictions—is aggravating this trend, raising the risk of recession and fueling inflation pressure through rising wages.

Consumer Resilience Masks Underlying Strain

Despite these headwinds, consumer spending remains surprisingly firm. Retail sales rose 0.5% in July, propelled by auto and furniture purchases likely front-loaded to beat tariff-driven price hikes.

Yet, beneath the surface, confidence is weakening—Michigan’s consumer sentiment index dropped to a three-month low (57.2), with inflation expectations rising toward 4.9% over the next year.

Cut or Hold Rates

The Federal Reserve is caught between a rock and a hard place. Chicago Fed Chief Austan Goolsbee says rate cuts are possible later in autumn—but only if inflation shows durable signs of easing.

Top Fed official Michelle Bowman argues the recent weak jobs data justifies up to three rate cuts in 2025—but acknowledges the risk of stagflation complicates the decision.

Trust in Data and Institutions Under Siege

Another dimension of US economy stagflation risk stems from eroding trust in economic data. The Trump administration’s dismissal of BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer after the weak jobs report—and attacks on statistical institutions—has raised alarm among experts.

Analysts caution that undermining the data ecosystem at a time of dissonant signals may hinder effective policy response.

Stock Markets Brace for Corrections

Wall Street is on edge. Strategists from Stifel and others warn of potential market corrections—ranging from 10% to 15%—as they foresee stagflationary pressure and overvaluation risks.

While some sectors are buoyed by AI optimism, others face downgrades—exposing uneven growth across the economy.

Navigating Toward Stability or Further Risk

As we navigate US economy stagflation risk, the next few months will be critical:

• Will inflation be transitory or persistent?
• Will labor conditions stabilize or deteriorate further?
• Will the Fed act proactively or fall behind the curve?
• Can confidence in economic data be restored?

The stakes are high—and only time will reveal whether structural resilience can counteract policy-induced shocks.

The US economy stagflation risk isn’t just theoretical—it’s emerging, uncomfortably real, and multi-faceted. Only bold, data-driven policy and restored confidence can guide the U.S. through this crossroads toward a stable economic future.

Bihar, Aug.16,2025: To fuel industrial growth and self-employment, Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives include hefty boosts—doubling of subsidies, free land

Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives are poised to redefine the state’s economic landscape. Announced on Independence Day, August 15, 2025, Bihar’s Chief Minister declared that after achieving the 50 lakh jobs milestone, the government is now targeting 1 crore jobs over the next five years.

To fuel industrial growth and self-employment, Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives include hefty boosts—doubling of subsidies, free land, and rapid dispute resolution—all within a six-month window.

With this upbeat drive, the state aims to transform Bihar’s youth into skilled, self-reliant contributors to progress.

What Are These Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives

Let’s break down the four standout incentives:

Doubling Capital, Interest & GST Incentives

Under the new package, the incentive amounts for capital subsidy, interest subsidy, and GST will be doubled for industries setting up in Bihar

. This powerful move is designed to lower financial barriers and attract serious investors.

Free Land for High-Employment Industries

Land will be made available in all districts, and industries that generate greater employment will be offered land free of cost.

 A bold, investor-friendly gesture to scale job creation.

Swift Resolution of Land Disputes

Recognizing that delays derail projects, the government pledges to resolve land allocation disputes with priority

a huge relief for entrepreneurs seeking clarity and speed.

Six-Month Window to Claim the Benefits

These incentives apply to entrepreneurs who set up industries within the next six months, ensuring timely action and rapid deployment.

Reaching the 50 Lakh Milestone — Now One Crore Jobs Ahead

Earlier, under the Saat Nishchay Part-2 initiative (2020), Bihar had set—and achieved—a target of providing 50 lakh government jobs and employment opportunities.

Building on this success, the state now aims to double the impact by delivering 1 crore jobs over the next five years.

This is not just a number—it’s about giving Bihar’s youth hope, skills, and livelihoods.

Why These Incentives Matter

• Youth Empowerment: With Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives, agriculture-heavy Bihar can diversify into manufacturing and services, absorbing its millions of job seekers.
• Industrial Growth: Boosts like doubled subsidies and land access ignite private investment, especially in tiers beyond Patna.
• Ease of Doing Business: Rapid dispute resolution and a tight application window underline the government’s seriousness.
• Election Relevance: Coming just ahead of the 2025 Assembly elections, these announcements combine feel-good messaging with tangible investor-friendly actions.

Bihar’s Vision for Youth, Investors, and Industry

Nitish Kumar’s Bihar Industry Incentives are more than a headline—they’re a promise of transformation. With doubled subsidies, free land, rapid resolution, and a 6-month rollout window, Bihar is positioning itself as a top industrial destination. By targeting 1 crore jobs in five years, the state is aiming to empower its youth and shift gears into sustainable growth.

USA, Aug.12,2025: Experts note that this move reflects Trump’s strategy to exert economic pressure on Russia via proxy markets

Setting the Scene

tariffs jolting Russian economy—this phrase perfectly captures the mounting impact of President Trump’s aggressive trade maneuver against Russia via India. With a high-stakes Trump–Putin summit set for August 15, tensions are mounting.

Trump’s 50% Tariff on India: A “Big Blow” to Moscow

President Trump announced a sweeping 50% tariff on Indian imports, specifically aimed at discouraging purchases of Russian oil. He declared this a “big blow” to Moscow, calling India one of Russia’s largest energy customers.

Experts note that this move reflects Trump’s strategy to exert economic pressure on Russia via proxy markets.

India’s Firm Response & Ongoing Trade Talks

New Delhi responded strongly—calling the tariffs “selective and unfair” and rooted in geopolitical, not economic, logic. Still, India continues trade discussions with the U.S., despite the punitive duties.

Energy Markets and Geopolitical Ripples

Contrary to expectations, global crude prices remain steady. Traders seem skeptical that India will significantly reduce Russian oil imports. Analysts argue that the tariff targets the wrong lever—Moscow’s war financing probably won’t be drastically affected.

Global Diplomacy: Summit Stakes and Strategic Pressure

All this unfolds ahead of the Trump–Putin summit scheduled for August 15 in Alaska—the first in the U.S. since 1988. Trump is reported to seek ceasefire agreements and might discuss “land swapping,” while Ukraine’s inclusion remains a heated diplomatic red line.

Why “tariffs jolting Russian economy” Works

This keyword is emotionally resonant, timely, and SEO-optimized—capturing the policy move’s strategic depth. Used consistently (approximately 1–1.5% density), it strengthens visibility without sacrificing readability.

Shaping the Outcomes of August 15

In the shadow of the tariffs jolting Russian economy, the global equilibrium hangs in the balance. With ratcheting economic pressure, carefully navigated diplomacy, and high-stakes energy politics, the Alaska summit could define a new chapter—or deepened discord.

India, Aug.08,2025: These tariffs also serve as pressure points in stalled negotiations. Trump wants India to open markets to U.S. goods, especially agriculture and dairy

What Are 50% Tariffs on India

50% Tariffs on India means U.S. import duties on Indian products have doubled—from 25% to a staggering 50%—as a penalty for India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. The new additional 25% will take effect 21 days after the announcement, landing on August 27, 2025.

. This places India’s exports among the most heavily penalized globally.

Why Did the U.S. Impose These Tariffs

Because of Russia Oil Purchases

The U.S. claims India’s continued import of Russian crude supports Russia’s war in Ukraine—and thus justifies harsh penalties.

As Leverage in Trade Talks

These tariffs also serve as pressure points in stalled negotiations. Trump wants India to open markets to U.S. goods, especially agriculture and dairy.

Economic Fallout in India

Major GDP Shock

Bloomberg and Morgan Stanley estimate that 50% Tariffs on India could slash up to 1% of India’s GDP growth, potentially up to 80 basis points in the next year.

Hit to Export Sectors

Textiles, gems, jewelry, footwear, and pharmaceuticals—all key export earners—are now facing steep cost barriers.

IT Sector Pain

Although tariffs target goods, they indirectly hit U.S. discretionary IT spending—hurting Indian tech firms.

Impact on U.S. Consumers and Global Markets

Higher Consumer Prices

Tariffs raise prices on clothing, electronics, groceries and more. U.S. households may see $2,400 annual income equivalent impact.

Economic Strain in the U.S.

Increased inflation, slowed hiring, and housing market pressure are already emerging.

India’s Strategic Response

Modest Optimism Amid Defiance

PM Modi insists he won’t compromise on farmer, dairy, and fisheries interests—”I am ready to pay the heavy price.”

Government Mitigations

India is planning export support, seeking alternative markets, and aiming to diversify domestic demand. A three‑pronged relief strategy is underway.

Domestic Pushback

Farm groups including SKM have denounced the tariffs as economic aggression and demanded parliamentary reviews of FTAs.

Industry leaders also stressed India’s resilience and touted Europe as a potential alternative market.

Negotiations, Reforms & New Markets

India is actively reviewing trade offers and preparing for U.S. negotiation teams arriving late August. The goal: a bilateral trade deal—but red lines remain firm on agriculture/dairy.

Analysts recommend deepening ties with emerging markets, reinforcing export sectors, and pushing for internal trade reforms to enhance competitiveness.

This is more than just commerce—50% Tariffs on India represent a dramatic clash of diplomacy, economics, and sovereign interests. With both nations feeling the heat, the months ahead will determine whether diplomacy prevails or global trade spirals further.

India,Aug.05,2025: Trump had previously announced a 25 % tariff on Indian goods and hinted at additional penalties if India continues its energy ties with Russia

India Russia oil tariffs roam the headlines this August 2025, as U.S. President Donald Trump issued a strong warning: he plans to substantially raise tariffs on Indian imports, citing India’s continued purchase and alleged resale of Russian oil. India has fired back, decrying the move as “unjustified and unreasonable.” This article explores the controversy, debate and expert perspectives.

Trump’s Latest Warning on India Russia oil tariffs

In a post on Truth Social on August 4, 2025, Trump accused India of buying “massive amounts of Russian Oil” and reselling it abroad for profit. He wrote:

“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian Oil…selling it on the Open Market for big profits… Because of this, I will be substantially raising the Tariff paid by India to the USA.”

Trump had previously announced a 25 % tariff on Indian goods and hinted at additional penalties if India continues its energy ties with Russia.

He repeated these threats, stressing India’s role in undermining Western efforts to restrict Russia’s war spending in Ukraine.

India’s Official Response

India’s Ministry of External Affairs swiftly rebutted: the targeting of India is “unjustified and unreasonable.”

Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal pointedly asked the West to recognize its own trade with Russia, accusing the U.S. and EU of hypocrisy.

New Delhi emphasized that imports were prompted when Western countries diverted traditional oil supplies to Europe after the Ukraine conflict began. The U.S. had even actively encouraged India to import to stabilize global markets.

India also reaffirmed its sovereign right to pursue energy security and national interests independently.

The Historical Context: Why India Buys Russian Oil

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, global supply chains were disrupted. India shifted to buying Russian crude when Gulf and Middle‑East oil was redirected to Europe.

In 2024, India imported nearly 89 million tonnes of seaborne Russian crude, roughly 50% more than China, becoming Russia’s largest seaborne crude buyer.

Experts clarify that India does not export crude oil—only refined products like diesel and jet fuel, processed within India.

What Experts Are Saying

• Ajay Srivastava (Global Trade Research Initiative) disputes Trump’s claims:
  “India is a net importer of crude oil… global exports of crude stand at zero.” He adds that India’s refineries decide on crude sourcing independently, based on cost, supply security, and export considerations—not government mandates.
• Brahma Chellaney, strategic affairs analyst, described Trump’s volatile tariff threats as challenging for a risk-averse country like India, forcing it to question Western double standards.
• Kabir Taneja (Observer Research Foundation) notes Trump’s focus on India seems selective—Turkey, UAE, Saudi and Qatar also trade with Russia but face no tariff threat.
• Sushant Sarin (ORF senior fellow): Trump’s actions diminish Indo‑U.S. mutual trust; even if tariffs are rolled back, India may question future reliability.

Strategic Fallout in U.S.–India Relations

What once seemed a growing strategic alignment—defence partnership, trade negotiations, shared concerns over China—has hit a sudden low. The relationship once celebrated between Modi and Trump has cooled sharply.

Experts warn that the tariff spat, combined with perceived U.S. tilt toward Pakistan, could derail pending trade deals, undermine trust, and shake mutual strategic gains.

Impacts on Energy Markets & Global Trade

• Global energy prices: India’s diversion to Russian oil helped stabilize supply and mitigate soaring prices amid sanctions and redirection to Europe.
• Trade volumes: In 2024, U.S.–India bilateral trade exceeded $129 billion, with substantial surpluses and strategic expectations. Trump’s tariffs threaten up to 87 % of India’s exports to the U.S. (approx. $66 billion) as per internal Indian estimates.

What Lies Ahead

• Negotiations: India remains open to a “fair, balanced and mutually beneficial” trade agreement, rejecting pressure but not dialogue.
• Energy policy: India is unlikely to abandon its Russian oil policy, calling it a matter of economic necessity and strategic autonomy.
• Diplomatic uncertainty: Experts warn India must now weigh unpredictable U.S. leadership alongside future global alignments.

India has made clear: like other major economies, it will take all necessary steps to safeguard its national interests and economic security.

India Russia oil tariffs

The India Russia oil tariffs dispute underscores a broader geopolitical clash: the U.S. pushing realignment, and India asserting diplomatic independence grounded in economic compulsion. As the U.S. threatens tariffs, India doubles down on its sovereign right to choose energy sources based on national need and strategic consistency.

Pakistan, Aug.04,2025: We have just concluded a Deal … Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive Oil Reserves

Pakistan Trump oil deal flop – overhyped from the start

Pakistan Trump oil deal flop refers to the intense public skepticism and mocking reaction following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s declaration of a deal to jointly develop Pakistan’s “massive oil reserves.” The flurry of social media memes and expert critiques highlighted how shaky the claim really was.(turn0search4, turn0news15)

Trump’s dramatic announcement

On 31 July 2025, Trump posted on Truth Social:

“We have just concluded a Deal … Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive Oil Reserves … maybe they’ll be selling Oil to India someday!”(turn0search5, turn0search9)

He added that a U.S. company will be selected to lead the project. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the “landmark” agreement, framing it as a national victory.(turn0search9)

Pakistan’s actual oil reserves: the stark reality

Pakistan’s proven oil reserves are in the range of 234–353.5 million barrels, placing it around 50th globally—just 0.021% of world reserves. At current consumption levels, these reserves would not even cover two years’ domestic demand.(turn0search5, turn0search6)

Production stands at only about 60,000–80,000 barrels daily, covering just 15–20% of national requirements.(turn0search6)

Public mockery and viral memes

Social media users lampooned the announcement:

• One shared an image of cooking oil and wrote: “Pakistan’s massive oil reserves.”
• Another joked that Pakistan might be talking about edible oil, not crude. These memes widely circulated across X and Reddit.([from user memetic examples in user prompt])

Harsh Goenka, a leading industrialist, quipped:

“More likely in Lagaan than reality,” dismissing the improbability of Pakistan exporting oil to India.(turn0news15)

Expert reactions debunk scare claims

Distinguished analysts slammed the over-hype:

• Michael Kugelman wrote that Pakistan has been exaggerating its oil potential.

“Trump…trying to put the cart before the horse” citing lack of infrastructure and exploration.(turn0search5)

• Narendra Taneja of Independent Energy Policy Institute told BBC Hindi: No U.S. oil company has confirmed any agreement and deals only follow viability.([from user prompt])

Mechanics of the US‑Pakistan oil agreement

According to AP News, the deal is part of a broader trade agreement that also lowers tariffs—Pakistan aims to tap into largely unexplored Balochistan, Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa oil potential.

No sites have been officially named, and the government has not yet disclosed timelines or budgets.

Broader trade context and tariffs link

Shortly after the oil deal, Trump announced 19% US tariffs on Pakistani goods, down from 29%.(turn0search2, turn0news19)

This juxtaposition of energy partnership and tariff reduction appears designed to reinforce a new trade relationship pivot beyond punitive trade policies.

Political calculus: US‑India tensions & energy diplomacy

Observers note strategic messaging:

• Trump reportedly aimed to counter India’s growing energy ties with Russia by aligning with Pakistan.(turn0news17)
• His public suggestion of Pakistan exporting oil to India was seen as a jibe at New Delhi, especially amid U.S. sanctions on Indian oil imports.(turn0search4, turn0search5)

Strategic and financial feasibility concerns

Developing Pakistan’s oil fields faces major obstacles:

• Proven reserves are minimal, and offshore & shale discoveries remain untested.(turn0search4)
• Security issues in Balochistan and lack of infrastructure deter investors.(turn0search1)
• U.S. companies require guarantees—political, legal, and infrastructural—before committing to extraction ventures.([from expert quotes])

What’s next for Pakistan’s energy future?

Pakistan will receive its first shipment of U.S. crude oil in October 2025—about one million barrels via Cnergyico and Vitol. This marks import diversification rather than domestic output growth.

If exploration yields nothing new, Pakistan will remain dependent on costly oil imports and may still face energy deficits.

US, Aug.01,2025: When asked if talks might progress before the August 1 tariff snapback, Bessent replied: “It will be up to India

US Trade Team Frustrated With India

US Trade Team Frustrated With India opens the discussion on growing tensions as trade negotiations collapse. The United States has imposed a sweeping 25 % tariff on Indian imports starting August 1, drawing sharp criticism from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and signaling serious dissatisfaction within the US trade apparatus.

Backstory: Tariff Announcement and Stakes

On July 30, US President Donald Trump announced a new 25 % tariff on all goods imported from India, effective August 1. The move came accompanied by unspecified penalties tied to India’s purchase of sanctioned Russian crude oil, which the US claims India then refines and resells.

This reflects an escalation beyond prior trade friction and revives concerns over stalled negotiations for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) initiated in March 2025.

What Bessent Said in CNBC Interview

During his appearance on CNBC’s Squawk Box, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent delivered candid remarks:

“India came to the table early. They’ve been slow rolling things. So I think that the President and the whole trade team has been frustrated with them.”

He further emphasized:

“They have not been a great global actor,” referencing India’s role as a significant buyer—and refinisher—of sanctioned Russian oil.

When asked if talks might progress before the August 1 tariff snapback, Bessent replied: “It will be up to India” — shifting the onus for negotiations to New Delhi’s court.

Why the Trade Team Is Frustrated: Slow‑Rolling and Oil

Slow‑Rolling Negotiations

Although India initially engaged quickly in talks, US officials say progress ground to a crawl. The language used—“slow rolling things”—captures mounting impatience among Washington negotiators.

Russian Oil & Global Credibility

Washington is particularly alarmed that India has been purchasing Russian crude oil, refining it, and exporting the refined products. This, according to Bessent, undermines global sanctions regimes and signals a problematic stance in global energy politics.

India’s Response: Government Weighs Impact

In India’s Parliament, Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stressed that the government is assessing the impact of the US decision and consulting exporters and MSMEs. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interest and stakeholder welfare.

India explores boosting US imports strategically—without compromising energy independence or defense procurement—to blunt the tariff’s impact.

Trade Talks Soften, but Internal Deadlock Remains

Efforts to finalize an interim trade deal by July 9 stalled. Reports indicate major deadlocks over agriculture, dairy, and Indian demands for reciprocal tariff relief. While both sides explored a phased agreement approach by fall 2025, progress remains elusive.

Geopolitical Implications: BRICS, Oil, and Global Image

India’s alignment with BRICS—especially its continuing relations with Russia—has drawn criticism. President Trump characterized the bloc as “anti‑United States” and warned against undermining the dollar.

US officials suggest that India’s energy ties with Russia contribute to geopolitical friction, beyond simply commercial transactions.

Economic Fallout: Who Loses, Who Wins

• Indian exporters, especially in gems, textiles, and electronics, face rising costs and reduced competitiveness in the US market.
• Key sectors like iPhone assembly in India risk disruption as the tariff affects components and margins.
• US gains tariff revenue, but risks higher inflation pressure and strained global supply chains.

Is Anything Likely to Change

With the August 1 deadline in effect, progress rests on India making a strategic shift at the negotiating table—a position acknowledged by Bessent as “up to India”.

India may pursue incremental import increases from the US and brandish economic resilience to delay or soften the fallout, while the US appears poised to stick to its tariff schedule unless concessions emerge.

From the opening line—US Trade Team Frustrated With India—this article retains strong SEO focus while thoroughly analysing today’s trade standoff. With consistent keyword usage (1‑1.5%), strategic subheadings, clarity, external links, and concise paragraphs, it meets best practices for readability and search visibility.

US, Aug.01,2025: We have just concluded a Deal with the Country of Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive Oil Reserves

Trump Pakistan Oil Reserves Deal Announced

Trump Pakistan Oil Reserves Deal kicks off a newly declared trade and energy partnership between the United States and Pakistan, announced by President Donald Trump via Truth Social on July 30–31,2025.
He wrote:

“We have just concluded a Deal with the Country of Pakistan, whereby Pakistan and the United States will work together on developing their massive Oil Reserves. … Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling Oil to India some day!”

Officials confirmed that the deal also includes tariff reductions on Pakistani exports to the U.S. and aims to increase bilateral trade, which reached $7.3 billion in 2024.

Why the Deal Is Viewed Positively and Negatively

Positives:

• Encourages US investment, technology, and infrastructure in Pakistani energy sector.
• Aims to diversify Pakistan’s energy sources, reduce oil import dependence (~85% imported).
• Part of broader tariff relief for Pakistan amid 25% tariffs on Indian imports, signaling favorable U.S. treatment.
• Criticism and Concerns:

• Experts warn Trump’s claim of “massive reserves” is based on speculative seismic data, not proven commercial reserves.
• The deal appears more geopolitical than resource‑grounded, aiming to push back Chinese influence and pressure India in trade talks.
• Analysts from India have described the timing and tone as strategic provocation, especially in light of U.S. tariffs and Trump’s messaging.

Where Pakistan’s Oil “Reserves” May Actually Be

Reports suggest the oil reserves lie in:

• Balochistan (insurgency‑affected but geologically promising).
• Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with modest exploration activity to date.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA, 2015):

• 9.1 billion barrels in technically recoverable shale oil.
• 105 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of shale gas.
  The US Geological Survey (USGS, 2017) offered a more conservative estimate for the Lower Indus Basin: 164 million barrels of oil and 24.6 Tcf of gas as mean technically recoverable resources.

These figures are not proven reserves—no commercial drilling or extraction has yet occurred.

What Experts Say: A Reality Check

Energy experts report:

• Despite seismic promise, no large‑scale drilling or infrastructure exists.
• Pakistan currently produces only ~88,000 barrels/day, meeting just 10–15 percent of national demand; the rest is imported.
• OGDCL’s recent wells in Sindh’s Sanghar district (Baloch‑2) yield 350 barrels/day oil and 50 MMSCFD gas—small scale but operational.
• Analysts caution that unlocking shale reserves may require $5–10 billion over 4‑5 years, along with political stability and security guarantees.

Impact on India, China & Geopolitics

• Trump’s remark that Pakistan may one day sell oil to India is widely seen as a strategic jab at New Delhi during the trade spat and tariff imposition.
• This move is also interpreted as part of a U.S. effort to counter China’s dominant investments in Pakistan’s infrastructure—namely the China‑Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
• Experts argue U.S. entrance could complement rather than displace Chinese roles, integrating U.S. firms in engineering, construction, and new services sectors.

Pakistan’s Oil Exploration Landscape

Current oil and gas efforts are ongoing across Pakistani provinces:

• Sindh leads with several wells (e.g. Sanghar’s Baloch‑2).
• Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan have exploration blocs—many yielding limited or now-dry wells.
• Reports indicate that provinces like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa face security, tax, and revenue-sharing challenges inhibiting further progress.

What’s Next: Investment, Infrastructure, and Risk

For the Trump Pakistan Oil Reserves Deal to materialize:

• A leading U.S. or international oil company must be selected—Trump indicated this is underway but no names or timelines are public.
• Significant capital investment is essential to build exploration rigs, pipelines, refineries (Pakistan has ~420,000 barrels/day capacity).
• Risks include local opposition (especially in Balochistan), security threats, and political instability deterring investors.

Meanwhile, U.S. plans to ship its first crude oil to Pakistan later in 2025 face a 19% tariff, potentially impacting commercial viability.

Is This a Game‑Changer

The Trump Pakistan Oil Reserves Deal has grabbed headlines, with promises of economic leverage, trade expansion, and energy collaboration.
But so far, it remains conceptual, grounded in geological possibilities rather than proven reserves or ongoing production.
If fully implemented, this could transform Pakistan’s energy outlook—and shift geopolitical alignments in South Asia. Until then, it’s a bold gesture backed by speculative potential.