Donald Trump urges the European Union to introduce tariffs of up to 100 percent on China and India. He hopes to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin and force an end to the war in Ukraine.
Trump calls for tougher stance on Russia
The US president made his appeal during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides discussed new ways to weaken Russia’s economy further. According to a source, Trump pressed for the highest possible tariffs on China and India. He had pledged to end the conflict on the “first day” of his presidency. Yet peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv remain stuck. Meanwhile, Russian strikes on Ukraine have grown more intense.
Trump prepares call with Putin
Trump announced on Tuesday that he plans to call Putin soon. He expects the conversation this week or early next week. China and India are among the biggest buyers of Russian oil. Their purchases help sustain Russia’s economy and finance its war.
Washington already targeted India
Last month, the United States 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 promised to cut reliance on Russian energy. Still, about 19 percent of its imported natural gas comes from there. Should the EU follow Trump’s demand, it would mark a major policy shift. Until now, Europe relied on sanctions rather than tariffs.
Treasury secretary demands stronger European role
Trump’s push comes after remarks by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He stressed that Washington is ready to increase pressure. But he warned that Europe’s stronger backing is crucial.
Russian strikes intensify across Ukraine
Over the weekend, a Russian missile hit Ukraine’s main government building in Kyiv. Analysts saw the attack as both symbolic and a clear escalation. Ukraine reported its heaviest wave of airstrikes since the start of the war. Officials said Russia used 810 drones and 13 missiles. On Tuesday, more than 20 civilians were killed in Donetsk by a Russian glide bomb. They had been waiting to collect their pensions.
Trump warns Kremlin of harsher sanctions
Trump said he was “not happy with the whole situation.” He threatened tougher sanctions against the Kremlin. He had made similar promises before, but Putin ignored deadlines and threats. A recent summit in Alaska ended without progress toward peace.
Trade talks with India move forward
Trump also confirmed ongoing talks with India about trade barriers. He said he will call Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump voiced confidence that the negotiations will reach a “successful conclusion.” Modi echoed Trump’s optimism and stressed the strong partnership. “Our teams are working to finalize these talks quickly. I also look forward to speaking with President Trump,” he said.
Signs of renewed cooperation with New Delhi
Observers view Trump’s comments as a signal of warming ties after earlier talks collapsed. Just last week, Trump praised the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “Sometimes we just have minor differences.”
