'Important to make me happy': Donald Trump hints at new tariffs on India over Russian oil, says PM Modi 'knew he was not happy'

US President Donald Trump has issued a fresh warning to India over its continued imports of Russian oil, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi "knew he was not happy."

"We could raise tariffs on India if they don't help on the Russian oil issue," Trump said on board Air Force One on Sunday.

He added, "... They wanted to make me happy, basically... PM Modi's a very good man. He's a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy. They do trade, and we can raise tariffs on them very quickly..."

Trump's remarks came after US Senator Lindsey Graham, accompanying him on Air Force One, said that the tariffs imposed on India by Trump are the "chief reason" New Delhi is now buying substantially less Russian oil.

Graham spoke about his tariff bill that seeks to impose 500 per cent levies on imports from countries buying Russian oil.

Graham said that to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, pressure must be put on Russian President Vladimir Putin's customers.

Trump said that the sanctions are hurting Russia very badly and then mentioned India. Graham then said that the US put a 25 per cent tariff on India for buying Russian oil.

"I was at the Indian Ambassador's house about a month ago and all he wanted to talk about is how they are buying less Russian oil. 'Would you tell the President to relieve the tariff? Graham said.

With PTI inputs