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 stronger measures against Moscow
The US president raised his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides explored new strategies to weaken Russia’s economy. According to a source, Trump pressed for the highest possible tariffs on 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 revealed on Tuesday that he intends to speak with Putin soon. He expects the call to take place this week or early next week. China and India are among Russia’s top oil buyers. Their purchases sustain Russia’s economy and fund its war effort.
US already applies tariffs on India
Last month, Washington imposed tariffs of 50 percent on Indian goods. The measure 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 calls for stronger European backing
Trump’s push followed remarks from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is ready to escalate economic pressure. But he emphasized that stronger European support is essential.
Russia escalates 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 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 warns Kremlin of harsher sanctions
Trump said he was “not happy with the whole situation.” He threatened Moscow with tougher sanctions. He had made similar warnings before, but Putin ignored them. A summit in Alaska last month ended without progress toward 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 view Trump’s comments as a sign of improving ties after earlier trade talks collapsed. Last week, Trump highlighted the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “Sometimes we just have small disagreements.”
