The strategic partnership between India and the United States is facing one of its sharpest challenges in recent years, with “trust broken” between the two sides, according to Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).

In an exclusive interview with IANS, Aghi said the mood in New Delhi is marked by “surprise, disappointment, and disbelief” as Washington imposes tough measures over India’s Russian oil purchases. He stressed that ties, which were strong just weeks ago, have taken a sudden downturn.

The Trump administration recently hiked tariffs by 25 percent, raising the total to 50 percent on Indian goods, after warning New Delhi against continuing Russian energy imports. India has called the decision “unfair and unjustified.”

Aghi argued that the move “makes no sense,” noting that Europe and China buy more Russian energy than India, while Indian imports helped stabilize global prices. He suggested that the oil issue was being used as a pretext for deeper frustrations, including India’s refusal to endorse third-party mediation in its disputes with Pakistan.

Despite tensions, Aghi praised India’s “maturity” in avoiding an aggressive response, instead quietly exploring ways to find common ground. He emphasized that India’s long-term strategic and technological alignment remains with the US, not China or Russia.

Looking ahead, Aghi called for an “off-ramp” to ease tensions, suggesting direct dialogue between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump or increased Indian oil imports from the US as possible solutions.

“The stakes are high,” Aghi said, “but with the right steps, both sides can still ensure that this partnership continues to thrive.”