India vowed on Thursday to protect its labour-intensive agriculture sector, a central sticking point in bogged-down trade talks with the U.S., as Washington threatened 25% tariffs, triggering outrage from the opposition and a slump in the rupee.

Despite US pressure and potential penalties, India has not directed its oil refiners to halt Russian crude purchases, prioritizing energy security and diplomatic ties. Refiners continue sourcing oil based on commercial factors,

India expects US trade negotiators to visit the country later this month to continue talks on a bilateral deal, an official in New Delhi said, after President Donald Trump hit the South Asian nation with a 25% tariff.