The US president has indicated that further secondary sanctions targeting nations trading with Russia are forthcoming.
President Trump has suggested the possibility of imposing new sanctions on China as part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on countries engaging in trade with Russia.
On Wednesday, Trump announced plans to double tariffs on India to 50% by late August, accusing the country of supporting Russia in the Ukraine conflict through oil purchases.
During a press briefing at the White House that same day, Trump was questioned about potentially extending additional tariffs to China.
“Could happen. Depends on how we do,” Trump responded.
When asked about other countries buying Russian energy, he stated that more tariffs are to be expected.
“You’re going to see a lot more. You’re going to see so much secondary sanctions,” he said.
Both India and China, significant importers of Russian oil, have affirmed their commitment to protecting their economic interests in light of the new tariffs.
“India will take all actions necessary to protect its national interests,” the Indian Foreign Ministry stated on Wednesday.
China last week pledged to “ensure its energy supply” in a way that safeguards its interests. “Tariff wars have no winners,” the Chinese Foreign Ministry stated.
Current US tariffs on Chinese goods are at 30%, temporarily suspended after a significant trade dispute earlier in the year.
In April, Trump initiated a trade war with China, resulting in reciprocal tariffs reaching 145% for the US and 125% for China. A trade truce was reached in May, but the temporary freeze is scheduled to expire next Tuesday.
US-China trade discussions in Sweden last week led to an agreement to pursue an extension of the tariff truce, but a final agreement was not reached.
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