India, Oct. 18 -- The tariff waiver should not be interpreted as an act of American generosity towards India. The decision was driven primarily by Washington's domestic energy concerns and the approaching midterm elections, says an official.

In a stunning U-turn that has become emblematic of the Trump administration's approach to trade and sanctions, US President Donald Trump has suspended new penalties targeting countries that buy Russian oil, giving India relief from the threat of additional tariffs of up to 100% on its exports to the United States.

The decision comes as New Delhi has continued to buy Russian crude, resisted pressure to make further trade concessions and publicly questioned Washington's use of tariffs and sanctions as...