Donald Trump is calling on the European Union to apply tariffs of up to 100 percent on China and India. He aims to increase pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin and push for an end to the war in Ukraine.
Trump demands tougher action against Moscow
The US president made his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides explored new measures to weaken Russia’s economy. According to a source, Trump pressed 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 escalated sharply.
Trump plans direct call with Putin
Trump revealed on Tuesday that he intends 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 sustain Russia’s economy and help fund its war effort.
United States already applies tariffs on India
Last month, Washington imposed tariffs of 50 percent on Indian goods. The package included a 25 percent penalty linked to India’s trade with Russia. The EU has pledged to reduce reliance on Russian energy. Still, nearly 19 percent of its natural gas imports come from Moscow. If Brussels follows Trump’s demand, it would mark a major policy shift. Europe has so far relied on sanctions rather than tariffs.
Treasury secretary urges stronger European support
Trump’s push followed comments from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is ready to escalate economic pressure. But he stressed that stronger backing from Europe is essential.
Russia steps up attacks on Ukraine
Over the weekend, a Russian missile struck Ukraine’s main government building in Kyiv. Analysts described the strike as both symbolic and 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 warns Kremlin of harsher sanctions
Trump said he was “not happy with the whole situation.” He threatened Moscow with stronger sanctions. He had made similar threats before, but Putin ignored them. A recent summit in Alaska ended without progress on peace.
Trade talks with India continue
Trump confirmed that negotiations with India over trade barriers are ongoing. He plans to call Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump expressed confidence that the discussions 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 warming US-India relations
Analysts see Trump’s comments as a sign of improving ties after previous 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.”
