Donald Trump is pressing the European Union to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on China and India. He wants to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin and bring the war in Ukraine to an end.
Trump demands firmer action against Russia
The US president voiced his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides reviewed options to further damage Russia’s economy. According to a source, Trump insisted on maximum tariffs targeting China and India. He had pledged to stop the conflict on the “first day” of his presidency. Yet negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv remain frozen. At the same time, Russia’s attacks on Ukraine have escalated sharply.
Trump plans phone call with Putin
Trump revealed on Tuesday that he intends to speak directly with Putin soon. He expects the call this week or early next week. China and India rank among Russia’s top oil buyers. Their imports keep the Russian economy alive and provide crucial war funding.
United States already imposed duties on India
Last month, Washington announced 50 percent tariffs on Indian products. The measure included a 25 percent surcharge linked to India’s dealings with Russia. The EU has pledged to cut its reliance on Russian energy. Still, about 19 percent of its natural gas imports come from Moscow. If the EU adopts Trump’s plan, it would represent a significant policy shift. So far, Brussels has leaned on sanctions rather than tariffs.
Treasury secretary stresses European support
Trump’s push followed remarks by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is prepared to raise economic pressure. But he stressed that European cooperation is vital.
Russia steps up deadly attacks
A Russian missile struck Ukraine’s central government building in Kyiv over the weekend. Analysts described the strike as both symbolic and escalatory. Ukraine endured its heaviest aerial bombardment since the start of the war. Officials reported that Russia launched 810 drones and 13 missiles. On Tuesday, a Russian glide bomb killed more than 20 civilians in Donetsk. They had been standing in line to collect their pensions.
Trump warns Moscow of tougher measures
Trump said he was “not happy with the whole situation.” He warned the Kremlin that harsher sanctions were coming. He had made similar threats before, but Putin ignored them. A high-profile summit in Alaska last month ended without progress.
Trade discussions with India continue
Trump also confirmed that Washington and New Delhi are still in talks about trade barriers. He plans to speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump said he expects a “successful conclusion” soon. Modi echoed Trump’s confidence and praised the strong partnership. “Our teams are working to finalize the discussions quickly. I also look forward to speaking with President Trump,” he stated.
Growing signs of closer ties with India
Observers view Trump’s remarks as evidence of improving relations after previous trade talks collapsed. Last week, Trump emphasized the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “We just have minor disagreements sometimes.”
