The United States is reportedly pursuing a new strategy aimed at protecting its interests while exerting pressure on India and China. Publicly, U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, have expressed a positive stance on trade relations with India, calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi a good friend and pledging to resolve bilateral issues in the coming weeks. However, behind the scenes, Washington is implementing measures to influence India’s energy and trade decisions.
Reports indicate that the U.S. has urged G7 countries to impose higher tariffs on Russian oil imports, targeting nations like India and China. This initiative is intended to reduce Moscow’s war funds amid the Ukraine conflict. The Financial Times reported that the Trump administration asked allied nations to levy tariffs ranging from 50 to 100 percent and to maintain them until India and China stop purchasing Russian oil. U.S. officials argue that continued purchases indirectly support the war effort and exacerbate civilian casualties in Ukraine, with the strategy designed to bring Russia to the negotiating table. Canada has confirmed its participation in the upcoming G7 discussions on this issue.
In addition, senior U.S. and European Union officials recently met in Washington to discuss additional sanctions on Russia. In a conference call with EU representatives, Trump reportedly recommended maintaining a 100 percent tariff on Russian oil imports from India and China until they halt purchases. Both the U.S. and the EU have signaled readiness to coordinate measures, aiming to maximize economic pressure on Russia and limit its military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.