<h1>US tariffs on Indian imports, including 50% punitive levy linked to Russian oil purchases, strain bilateral trade and stall pact</h1> US-imposed tariffs on imports constitute the dominant legal change: a 50% tariff on certain Indian goods, including a 25% punitive levy tied to Russian oil purchases, which has materially strained bilateral trade relations and impeded conclusion of a previously negotiated bilateral trade agreement. A second tariff measure imposes a 25% duty on countries doing business with Iran, which, as applied to India, is assessed to have minimal commercial effect given low bilateral trade volumes. Separately, senior diplomatic engagement was resumed with a phone exchange addressing trade, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation and defence, with the parties agreeing to continue consultations, thereby preserving an avenue for further negotiation and dispute resolution.