Trump Imposes Heavy Tariffs on Indian Goods to Pressure Russia on Ukraine

US President Donald Trump has imposed steep new tariffs on Indian products as part of his strategy to pressure Russia into ending the conflict in Ukraine, according to a White House statement on Tuesday. The latest move doubles India’s existing tariffs to 50%, adding an extra 25% duty on top of the previously announced rate. These higher duties will come into effect from August 27.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt explained to reporters that President Trump intends to use these sanctions and other measures to apply “secondary pressure” on Russia, aiming to speed up peace efforts. The announcement comes after Trump recently hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, signalling progress towards potential trilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Both Trump and Zelenskyy described their White House meeting as highly productive.

The trade decision is already impacting Indian oil refiners, who are hesitating to buy Russian oil scheduled for September shipments until the full implications of the new penalties are clear. With Russian crude accounting for about 35% of India’s oil imports, industry officials warn that the loss of such a large supply could create market tensions and drive up prices.

Leavitt also highlighted that Trump is engaging in talks with NATO and European leaders to discuss long-term security guarantees and ensure a coordinated approach. She reiterated Trump’s commitment to bringing the war to a swift end, claiming that both European leaders and Russian President Putin acknowledge the determination behind these new measures.