New Delhi / Washington, D.C.:
On 5 September 2025, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick offered a bold prediction: he expects India to return to the trade negotiating table in the next one to two months, “saying sorry” and working towards a deal with President Trump. The U.S., he emphasized, remains the world’s biggest consumer—and ultimately dictates terms.
Tensions over oil and strategic alignment
Lutnick’s remarks came amid growing tensions over India’s energy choices and geopolitical stance. He criticised India’s increased reliance on discounted Russian oil, which rose from less than 2% to nearly 40% of its imports, calling it “just plain wrong.” He also questioned India’s position in the BRICS grouping, referring to New Delhi as the “vowel between Russia and China,” and urged India to back the U.S. and the dollar—or face steep tariffs.
Trade timeline and current status
India’s Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal, meanwhile, has expressed hope of finalising a bilateral trade agreement by November 2025, despite delayed U.S. visits and unresolved tariff and oil-related issues.
U.S. readiness to negotiate
Lutnick affirmed that the U.S. is “always willing to talk,” suggesting the door remains open despite current economic friction.