American economist Richard Wolff strongly criticised the Donald Trump administration’s move to impose high tariffs on Indian imports, warning that the step might weaken the United States while enhancing the role of economic groups such as BRICS.

Wolff, in an interview with Russia Today, characterised Washington’s decision to double tariffs on Indian goods raising them to as high as 50 per cent as an attempt by the US to act like the world’s tough guy while effectively shooting itself in the foot. He stated that the move would likely drive India to strengthen its economic engagement with BRICS nations, thereby building a more powerful counterbalance to Western economies.

He said that the tariffs would, in a hothouse fashion, accelerate the growth of BRICS into a larger, more integrated, and successful alternative to the West. He further cautioned that attempting to isolate India now recognised by the United Nations as the world’s most populous country was a risky strategy, given its long-standing relationship with Russia and its expanding role in global trade.

The United States announced the tariff hike on Wednesday, citing India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil. The new rates, the highest among US trading partners and on par with those imposed on Brazil, are expected to impact jobs and growth, according to economists.

During the interview, journalist Rick Sanchez highlighted the significance of the decision, stating that the world just changed. Wolff concurred, cautioning that India could shift its exports away from the United States and toward BRICS markets, in a manner similar to how Russia redirected its energy trade following Western sanctions.

Wolff added that the development marked a historic moment, observing that, with some irony, the United States appeared to be projecting toughness while simultaneously undermining itself.

Wolff’s comments come as former White House trade advisor Peter Navarro sparked controversy by labelling the Russia-Ukraine conflict Prime Minister Modi’s war. Speaking to Bloomberg, Navarro accused India of prioritising energy needs over global stability and argued that American taxpayers were funding Ukraine’s war efforts because of India’s oil trade with Moscow. Navarro remarked that New Delhi’s involvement was crucial to any path toward peace, while also accusing India of displaying arrogance by refusing to align with Western democratic nations.

India firmly opposed Washington’s tariff moves, describing it as unfair and unwarranted. New Delhi reiterated that, like other major economies, it would take all necessary actions to safeguard its national interests and uphold economic security.