Jaishankar, Rubio Discuss India-US Ties Amid Tariff Concerns

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week in New York, with bilateral relations, regional developments and concerns over new US sanctions legislation featuring prominently in the discussions.

Jaishankar said he reiterated India’s interests and concerns regarding the Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act (SRIA) of 2026.

The legislation gives the US President authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries purchasing Russian oil and gas, potentially affecting major importers including India.

The issue has particular significance for India’s energy security, as the country continues to source crude from multiple suppliers, including Russia. New Delhi has said it will take necessary steps to protect its economic interests and ensure energy security.

The two ministers also discussed the Gulf and Ukraine situations.
Rubio, in his post following the meeting, highlighted continued coordination between Washington and New Delhi on key regional priorities and upcoming multilateral efforts, while reaffirming the importance of the US-India strategic partnership.

The meeting comes as India and the United States continue to manage differences over tariffs, energy and sanctions while pursuing broader cooperation across trade, defence, critical minerals, technology and other strategic areas.

Great to meet with Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar in New York today.

Together, we are building on the U.S.-India strategic partnership and coordinating on key regional priorities and upcoming multilateral efforts. pic.twitter.com/i4QCAREDbY

— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) September 23, 2026