Trump Doubles Down on Tariffs, Targeting India and China to Pressure Putin

President Donald Trump is doubling down on his signature tariff policy, now aiming it at India and China in an effort to force Russia’s hand in Ukraine. He has formally requested that the European Union join the US in a plan to implement duties of up to 100% on imports from the two Asian powers. The move, discussed with EU officials in Washington, represents a major escalation in the West’s economic campaign against Moscow.
This new tariff push is a direct result of stalled peace negotiations and Russia’s continued military aggression. According to a White House source, the US is poised to act but will not do so unilaterally, insisting that European partnership is crucial for the plan’s success. Trump himself stated he expects to speak with Putin shortly, suggesting a multi-pronged approach of pressure and diplomacy is underway.
The choice of India and China as targets is a strategic one, coming after Vladimir Putin held a high-profile summit to bolster his alliances with them. The US has already acted against India for its economic ties to Russia, slapping a 50% tariff on its imports last month over oil purchases. Simultaneously, global trade tensions are rising, with Mexico also announcing a significant tariff hike on Chinese vehicles.
The entire strategy is overshadowed by a significant legal cloud. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear a case in November that will determine if Trump’s use of tariffs is constitutional. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has expressed confidence but also highlighted the immense risk, acknowledging that a loss would mean refunding billions of dollars and weakening a key tool of Trump’s foreign policy.