Donald Trump is calling on the European Union to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on China and India. He hopes to tighten pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin and move closer to ending the war in Ukraine.
Trump demands tougher response to Moscow
The US president raised his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides discussed new ways to strike Russia’s economy. According to a source, Trump pressed for maximum tariffs aimed at China and India. He had promised to stop the war on the “first day” of his presidency. Yet negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv remain stalled. Meanwhile, Russian strikes on Ukraine have escalated further.
Trump plans call with Putin
Trump also said on Tuesday that he intends to speak with Putin soon. He expects the call this week or early next week. China and India remain among the biggest buyers of Russian oil. Their imports sustain Russia’s economy and provide funding for its war effort.
United States already raised 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 cut its dependence 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 significant policy shift. Europe has so far relied on sanctions, not tariffs.
Treasury secretary presses Europe for backing
Trump’s push followed remarks from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is prepared to escalate economic pressure. But he emphasized that stronger European support is essential.
Russia intensifies airstrikes in Ukraine
A Russian missile struck Ukraine’s main government building in Kyiv over the weekend. Analysts described the attack as both symbolic and escalatory. Ukraine reported its heaviest air bombardment since the start of the war. Officials said Russia launched 810 drones and 13 missiles. On Tuesday, more than 20 civilians died in Donetsk after a Russian glide bomb strike. They had been waiting in line to collect their pensions.
Trump threatens Kremlin with harsher measures
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 high-profile summit in Alaska ended last month without any breakthrough.
Trade negotiations with India continue
Trump also confirmed that Washington and New Delhi are still in talks over trade barriers. He plans to call Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump said he expects a “successful conclusion” soon. Modi echoed Trump’s optimism and praised their close partnership. “Our teams are working to conclude the discussions quickly. I also look forward to speaking with President Trump,” he said.
Relations with India show signs of renewal
Analysts interpret Trump’s words as a sign of reconciliation after earlier trade talks collapsed. Just last week, Trump stressed the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “Sometimes we just have small disagreements.”
