Trump Pushes EU to Impose Massive Tariffs on China and India to Pressure Putin

Trump Urges EU to Levy Heavy Tariffs on China and India to Pressure Putin

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: September 10, 2025

Summary: Trump urges EU to levy tariffs on India and China to hit Russia’s oil trade lifeline.

Washington, September 9, 2025 — President Donald Trump is turning up the heat on Russia by urging the European Union to slap 100% tariffs on imports from China and India. The move, he argues, would choke off Moscow’s biggest economic support system — oil sales.

Trump made the proposal during a call with EU officials, including sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan, as part of talks on how to hit Russia harder for its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Since both China and India buy large amounts of Russian oil, Trump believes targeting them could weaken the Kremlin’s war chest.

The U.S. also hinted it would be willing to match the tariffs if Europe moves forward, signaling a united front against Moscow.

Interestingly, while Trump is talking tough, he also showed a softer approach toward India. He expressed hope for lowering U.S.-India trade barriers and said he looked forward to upcoming discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Meanwhile, India and the EU are moving ahead with their own agenda, aiming to finalize a major trade deal by the end of 2025 — a development that could reshape global trade relations.