US Commerce Secretary: India-US Trade Deal Failed Because Modi Didn't Call Trump

• US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claims the India-US trade deal didn't materialize because PM Modi didn't personally call President Trump.
• Lutnick stated that the US had negotiated deals with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, assuming India's deal would precede them.
• Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% last year, including a 25% levy in retaliation for India's Russian oil purchases.
• The US has reportedly stepped back from the previously agreed trade deal, with Lutnick indicating the offer has expired.
• A bipartisan Russia Sanctions Bill, approved by Trump, could impose a 500% tariff on countries like India, China, and Brazil for buying Russian oil.

Why It Matters: A key trade deal between India and the US reportedly stalled due to a lack of direct communication between leaders.