Donald Trump is calling on 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 push for an end to the war in Ukraine.
Trump demands tougher measures against Moscow
The US president raised his demand during a meeting with EU officials on Tuesday. Both sides explored new ways to hit Russia’s economy. 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. Peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv remain stalled. Meanwhile, Russian strikes on Ukraine have intensified.
Trump plans call with Putin
Trump also revealed on Tuesday that he intends to speak with Putin soon. He expects the conversation this week or early next week. China and India remain major buyers of Russian oil. Their purchases support Russia’s economy and fund its war effort.
United States already imposes tariffs on India
Last month, Washington implemented tariffs of 50 percent on Indian goods. The move included a 25 percent penalty tied to India’s trade with Russia. The EU has pledged to reduce its reliance on Russian energy. Still, nearly 19 percent of its natural gas imports come from Moscow. If Brussels follows Trump’s proposal, 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 remarks from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. He said Washington is ready to escalate economic pressure. But he stressed that Europe’s stronger backing is essential.
Russia escalates attacks on Ukraine
A Russian missile struck Ukraine’s main government building in Kyiv over the weekend. Analysts described the strike as both symbolic and a serious escalation. Ukraine reported its heaviest wave of airstrikes since the start of the war. Officials said Russia launched 810 drones and 13 missiles. On Tuesday, more than 20 civilians died in Donetsk from a Russian glide bomb. They had been queuing 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 issued similar warnings before, but Putin ignored them. A recent summit in Alaska ended without any breakthrough on peace.
Trade negotiations with India continue
Trump confirmed ongoing trade talks with India. He plans to call Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming weeks. Trump expressed confidence that the negotiations 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 improving US-India ties
Observers see Trump’s comments as a sign of warming relations after earlier talks collapsed. Just last week, Trump highlighted the “special relationship” with India. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he said. “Sometimes we just have small disagreements.”
