Bangladesh, Sept. 12 -- The ongoing negotiations between Washington and New Delhi for a trade agreement have entered a contentious phase, as US officials continue to link the deals success with Indias energy ties to Moscow. The latest remarks by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick underscore the growing friction in what has otherwise been touted as one of the most important bilateral partnerships in the world.

Speaking to CNBC on September 11, Lutnick said the United States would “sort out” a trade deal with India once New Delhi opens its market and halts imports of Russian crude oil. His comments follow repeated American criticisms of Indias energy policies since Russias war in Ukraine began in 2022, and they highlight Wash...