US doubles tariffs on India as part of broader strategy to push Russia toward peace talks in Ukraine.
White House Confirms Tariffs on India Target Russia
The US White House has revealed that former President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on India to exert pressure on Russia over the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The tariffs include an existing 25% levy and an additional 25% set to take effect soon, doubling the total to 50%.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Tuesday that the tariffs were meant as a secondary measure to discourage India from continuing its purchases of Russian oil.
Tariff Details and Strategic Intent
- Current Tariff: 25% on Indian goods
- New Tariff: Additional 25% to be imposed, totaling 50%
- Purpose: To penalize India for buying Russian oil and indirectly pressure Russia
- Broader Goal: Encourage Russia to end the war in Ukraine
Leavitt emphasized, “The president has put tremendous public pressure to bring this war to a close.”
Trump’s Diplomatic Efforts to End the War
- Trump recently met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
- Zelensky expressed that it was the “best conversation” he had with the US President so far.
- Trump supports a trilateral meeting involving Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate peace.
- European and NATO leaders have met with Trump following his discussions with Putin, signaling significant diplomatic momentum.
Leavitt said, “The president wants to move and bring this war to an end as quickly as possible.”
Claims About the War’s Origin
- Trump has repeatedly claimed the war in Ukraine would not have started if he were still in office.
- Surprisingly, according to Leavitt, even Putin agreed with this assessment.
- European leaders also support the view that Trump’s leadership could have prevented the conflict.
Focus on Lasting Peace and Security
Leavitt confirmed that Trump is actively working with European allies and NATO to ensure lasting security guarantees beyond his presidency.
“The President has expended an incredible amount of time, energy and effort into bringing this war to an end, and he remains determined to do that,” she said.
The doubling of tariffs on India is part of a multifaceted US strategy to isolate Russia economically and politically while pushing for peace in Ukraine. Trump’s engagement with key leaders across Europe and Ukraine reflects his administration’s ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict.
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