India faces a high-stakes balancing act as U.S. tariffs clash with its Russian oil imports, straining alliances and reshaping its role in an increasingly divided global order.

Tariffs on Indian exports to the United States will surge to 50 percent by late August, as part of an effort by President Trump to pressure Russia into resolving its war in Ukraine.

Former Indian High Commissioner Vikas Swarup pointed out that India's economic strength and strategic importance provide the country with valuable cards in negotiations with the US