Donald Trump is pressing the European Union to implement tariffs of up to 100 percent on China and India. He aims to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin and push toward ending the war in Ukraine.
Trump calls for stronger action against Moscow
The US president made his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides explored new ways to weaken Russia’s economy. According to a source, Trump pushed for the highest possible tariffs targeting China and India. He had promised to end the conflict on the “first day” of his presidency. Peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv remain stalled. Meanwhile, Russian strikes on Ukraine have intensified sharply.
Trump plans direct call with Putin
Trump also announced on Tuesday that he plans to speak with Putin soon. He expects the call this week or early next week. China and India are among Russia’s largest oil buyers. Their purchases support Russia’s economy and help fund the war.
United States already applies tariffs on India
Last month, Washington imposed tariffs of 50 percent on Indian goods. The measure included a 25 percent penalty tied to India’s trade with Russia. The EU has pledged to reduce its dependence on Russian energy. Still, nearly 19 percent of its natural gas imports come from Moscow. If Brussels adopts Trump’s demand, it would mark a major policy shift. Europe has so far relied on sanctions rather than tariffs.
Treasury secretary urges European support
Trump’s push followed comments from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is prepared to increase economic pressure. But he emphasized that stronger European backing is crucial.
Russia escalates attacks on Ukraine
A Russian missile struck Ukraine’s main government building in Kyiv over the weekend. Analysts described the strike as both symbolic and highly escalatory. Ukraine reported its heaviest wave of airstrikes since the start of the war. Officials said Russia launched 810 drones and 13 missiles. On Tuesday, a Russian glide bomb killed more than 20 civilians in Donetsk. They had been waiting in line to collect their pensions.
Trump threatens Kremlin with harsher sanctions
Trump said he was “not happy with the whole situation.” He warned Moscow of stronger sanctions. He had made similar threats before, but Putin ignored them. A recent summit in Alaska ended without progress toward peace.
Trade talks with India continue
Trump confirmed ongoing negotiations with India over trade barriers. He plans to call Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump expressed confidence the talks would reach a “successful conclusion.” Modi echoed Trump’s optimism and praised the strong partnership. “Our teams are working to finalize the discussions quickly. I also look forward to speaking with President Trump,” he said.
Signs of renewed US-India partnership
Analysts see Trump’s remarks as a sign of improving ties after earlier trade talks collapsed. Last week, Trump emphasized the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “Sometimes we just have minor disagreements.”
