President Donald Trump is making a new pressure play on Vladimir Putin, but this time the targets are Russia’s allies, not Russia itself. The plan involves the US and EU jointly imposing tariffs of up to 100% on India and China, aiming to disrupt the economic support that has helped Moscow withstand Western sanctions. The proposal was formally presented to EU officials this week in Washington.
This indirect strategy comes as direct measures against Russia have failed to end the war in Ukraine, leaving Trump impatient for a resolution. The administration has signaled its readiness to implement these massive tariffs but has made European participation a prerequisite, effectively challenging the EU to adopt a more confrontational stance.
The move is a direct response to the deepening ties between Russia and the two Asian economic powerhouses. The US has already demonstrated its willingness to use this tactic, having recently hiked duties on Indian goods to 50% over its Russian oil purchases. This new plan would be a far more significant escalation.
However, the legal basis for this pressure play is currently under review by the US Supreme Court. A pending case will determine the extent of the president’s authority to set tariffs. An unfavorable ruling would not only block this new initiative but would also force a costly refund of billions of dollars in previously collected duties.
