Feb 3

Feb 3 America and India Make Oil Deal: Trump's Power Over Trade

Summary

What Happened?

On February 2, 2026, Trump and Modi made a deal. Trump lowered taxes on Indian products from 50% to 18%. Modi agreed to reduce Russian oil purchases and buy from America instead.

Before

America taxed Indian products 50%

After

America taxes Indian products 18%

Why Did America Put High Taxes on India?

Trump said India bought too much Russian oil. He wanted India to stop buying Russian oil because Russian oil money pays for Russia's war in Ukraine. Trump said: "Buy Russian oil, and I tax your products 50%."

India's Oil Problem

India needs oil because it has 1.4 billion people and a growing economy. But India does not produce much oil.

India buys oil from many countries.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Russia's oil became cheap (other countries refused to buy). India bought cheap Russian oil to save money.

In 2024: India bought about 1.5 million barrels of Russian oil every day. That is 36% of all India's oil.

Trump's Demand

Trump said: Stop buying Russian oil. Buy American oil and Venezuelan oil instead.

Problem for India: American oil and Venezuelan oil cost more money than Russian oil. If India switches, it pays $9 billion to $11 billion more per year for oil.

But Modi accepted ( there is ambiguity ) this because:

If tariffs stayed at 50%, Indian companies could not export things

Exports bring money to India

Loss of exports would cost more than loss from expensive oil

The Deal Works for Trump Because:

Stops Russian oil sales (Russia loses $23 billion per year)

Russia has less money for Ukraine war

America sells oil to India instead

Venezuela controlled by America

India becomes closer ally

What About Russia?

Russia sells 1.5 million barrels of oil to India every day. If India reduces to 600,000 barrels, Russia loses $23 billion per year.

But Russia cannot punish India because India buys military weapons from Russia. If Russia cuts weapons sales, India buys from America or Europe instead.

So Russia accepts the loss.

Is This Good for India?

Good

Lower taxes on Indian exports

Better trade relationship with America

Bad

Oil costs $9-11 billion more per year

Less control over energy

Depends on America

Modi made the best deal he could.

Higher oil prices are better than 50% export taxes.

Antonio Bhardwaj

Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj, aka Amir, is a distinguished polymath whose intellectual pursuits span business, politics, theology, and psychology. As an INTJ personality type, he demonstrates an exceptional cognitive profile, with a Stanford-Binet IQ of 158 and a TalentEQ score in the 99th percentile, both validated through internationally recognized assessments.

With a career spanning several decades, Dr. Bhardwaj has emerged as a preeminent authority in military theory, specializing in cognitive and hybrid warfare—fields that emphasize the psychological and political dimensions of conflict.

His scholarly interests encompass global conspiracy theories, counterterrorism strategies, and in-depth historical analyses of both World Wars, which he skillfully applies to speculative scenarios regarding the potential emergence of World War III.

Employing analytical methodologies grounded in historical precedent and strategic frameworks, Dr. Bhardwaj conducts rigorous evaluations of contemporary military and political landscapes. He currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Washington.Media, where his incisive commentary elucidates the dynamics of the deep state within the Western bloc.

He is widely recognized as an expert on the historical evolution of the Russian Empire, the Soviet Union, and contemporary Russia, as well as on the intricacies of Gulf politics. With four decades of reading and writing, Dr. Bhardwaj has refined his expertise across multiple disciplines.

Academically, Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj holds a Doctorate in Theological Studies with a specialization in psychology.

His foundational education in mechanical engineering is complemented by a Master’s degree in International Trade and an Executive MBA. Most recently, he completed a seven-month executive program in artificial intelligence, further enhancing his capacity to integrate emerging technologies into strategic paradigms.

Beyond academia, Dr. Bhardwaj has engaged in political activism, having campaigned for Congressional office. His involvement in global political issues underscores his commitment to advocacy, though he remains cognizant of the operational constraints inherent in political engagement.

Dr. Antonio Bhardwaj’s initiatives, including the نهضة (Nahda) project, draw upon his deep understanding of complex social dynamics to compassionately support vulnerable women and underprivileged children.

Through his work, he fosters awareness of their challenges. He empowers them to rise above adversity, while gently yet firmly dismantling oppressive patriarchal structures and creating spaces of dignity, safety, and hope for all.

On a personal level, Dr. Bhardwaj finds solace in observing butterflies, a practice that deepens his connection to nature. His photographic work captures serene forest landscapes and waterfalls, inviting others to share in his appreciation for the natural world. He cherishes quality time with his pet and reflects on the profound experience of raising his daughter as a dedicated single parent. Dr. Bhardwaj also writes introspective poetry, which he regards as a means of fulfilling personal aspirations.

His familial relationships inform his advocacy, with a focus on fostering environments that promote autonomy and freedom of choice for all. Dr. Bhardwaj’s profound respect for the interconnectedness of life serves as a guiding principle he strives to instill in his daughter, advocating for a holistic and compassionate worldview.

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