Trump’s Ego Bruised – That’s Why the Tariffs

“India didn’t let him blow his own trumpet” – Personal Grudge Alleged

New Delhi – It appears that former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on India out of personal resentment, according to financial services firm Jefferies. During India’s Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, Trump had proposed to mediate between the two nations. India declined, which reportedly angered him.

Jefferies claims Trump hoped to position himself as a global peacemaker and even eyed the Nobel Peace Prize. But India refused to let him take credit, leading to a bruised ego. In retaliation, Trump allegedly imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, with India bearing the brunt compared to other U.S. trade partners.

“Trump’s personal grudge damaged bilateral ties and caused hardship for people,” Jefferies stated.

India’s Stand on Mediation

India has consistently maintained that third-party mediation is not acceptable in disputes involving Kashmir and Pakistan. Despite this, Trump launched a campaign suggesting he had resolved tensions and threatened sanctions. Jefferies praised India’s firm stance, calling it “commendable.”

Fallout from Operation Sindoor

India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Trump claimed he helped avert a nuclear war and pressured India into a ceasefire through tariff threats. India dismissed this, clarifying that the ceasefire proposal came from Pakistan, not the U.S.

Jefferies noted that Trump had repeatedly offered to mediate on Kashmir since his first term, and India’s refusal may have triggered his tariff strategy.

Agriculture: Another Flashpoint

Another contentious issue is agriculture. The U.S. wants access to India’s massive market for farm and dairy products, but India has refused. Jefferies highlighted that 250 million Indian farmers depend on this sector, and opening it up could have serious consequences.