US President demands joint action to punish India and China for importing Russian crude, aims to tighten pressure on Moscow amid Ukraine war.
In a sharp escalation of economic pressure tactics, US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged the European Union (EU) to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India and China, citing their continued purchase of Russian crude oil. The move is aimed at choking off a key revenue source for Moscow as the Ukraine war drags on.
Key Highlights
- Trump urges EU to match US tariffs on India and China
- US already imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, 30% on Chinese goods
- Trump: “Let’s all put on dramatic tariffs and keep them on”
- Frustration grows in the White House over failure to broker a Russia-Ukraine truce
- Trump previously claimed he could end the war “within hours” of taking office
- Contradictions emerge as Trump praises India trade talks on Truth Social
Trump’s Push for Unified Tariff Action
During a high-level meeting between US and EU officials in Washington, Trump reportedly dialled in and called for collective tariffs of up to 100% on imports from India and China. According to a report by The Financial Times, Trump stated that dramatic and unified economic pressure was the only way to force China and India to halt their purchase of Russian oil.
“We’re ready to go, but only if our European partners step up,” a senior US official was quoted as saying.
Another official added that Washington was willing to “mirror” any EU-imposed tariffs, indicating a massive potential escalation in trade tensions with both Asian powers.
Existing Tariffs Already Climbing
- India: Tariffs raised to 50%
- China: Tariffs stand at 30%
- Trump’s proposal could raise these to 100% if EU cooperates
- Air of trade war escalation looms over global markets
“There really aren’t many other places that oil can go,” said a US official, referring to Russian crude.
White House Frustration Over Ukraine Conflict
Trump’s tariff proposal comes amid mounting frustration within the White House over the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite previously stating he could end the conflict within hours, Trump now faces growing pressure as Russia intensifies attacks, including its largest-ever aerial strike on Ukraine last weekend.
In response, Trump has:
- Threatened new sanctions on Russia
- Pushed for penalties on countries continuing to buy Russian oil
- Imposed secondary sanctions on India, but not yet on China
Trump’s Mixed Signals on India
Trump’s tough stance on India appears contradictory when compared to his public statements made the same week.
During the SEO Summit, Indian PM Narendra Modi met with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, prompting speculation on diplomatic alignments.
Yet on Truth Social, Trump struck a different tone:
“I am pleased to announce that India and the United States of America are continuing negotiations to address Trade Barriers… I look forward to speaking with my very good friend, Prime Minister Modi… I feel certain that there will be no difficulty in coming to a successful conclusion!”
This stark contrast raises questions about Trump’s consistency on foreign trade and diplomacy, particularly with strategic partners like India.
Global Trade & Geopolitical Implications
If enacted, these proposed 100% tariffs could:
- Disrupt global supply chains
- Trigger retaliatory measures from India and China
- Strain US-India strategic relations
- Further polarize trade blocs amid ongoing geopolitical tensions
With Russia’s oil exports becoming a focal point of international diplomacy, Trump’s tariff diplomacy signals a shift toward economic coercion as a war-ending strategy.
Conclusion
President Trump’s call for dramatic tariffs on India and China marks a significant shift in US foreign policy, blending trade leverage with geopolitical goals. However, the conflicting rhetoric, especially toward India, may complicate America’s ability to build a unified front with its allies.
As the Russia-Ukraine war continues, all eyes will be on whether the EU follows Trump’s lead, or if this latest move only adds more strain to already fragile international relationships.
