US President Trump advised Europe to stop buying Russian oil and to pressure China. India has already been subjected to a 50% tariff. His objective is to halt Russian funding for the Ukraine war.
Trump Tariff: US President Donald Trump had previously targeted India for purchasing Russian oil. Following this, he imposed a 50% tariff on India. Now, Trump is turning his attention to Europe, urging its leaders to cease their purchase of Russian oil. He believes this action will prevent Russia from funding the war and help end the conflict in Ukraine.
Trump's Warning to Europe
Trump clarified that action has already been taken in the case of India. He explained that India was warned through tariffs for buying Russian oil. His focus is now on Europe. At a meeting of the 'Coalition of the Willing' on Thursday, Trump told European leaders to stop buying oil from Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other European leaders were also present at this meeting.
Trump's Focus on Ukraine and China
Trump also stated at the meeting that Europe should stop buying oil from Russia, and it is essential to exert economic pressure on China. He believes that China must be compelled to end the war. A White House official indicated that Trump is consistently emphasizing to European leaders that Russia is receiving financial aid and this must be stopped.
Reaction of European Leaders
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that 26 countries have pledged to contribute to a potential peacekeeping force for a ceasefire agreement. However, he noted that Europe alone is not capable of ending the war and providing security to Ukraine. Macron explained that the role of the United States is crucial, acting as a 'safety net.' Europe plans to finalize US support in the coming days.
Obstacles in Negotiations with Russia
This meeting between Trump and European leaders occurred amidst frustration over the inability to end the war between Russia and Ukraine. Even three weeks after the Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump saw no concrete progress in negotiations. US officials reported that Trump is considering the extent of his personal involvement in a peace meeting between Russia and Ukraine.
Oil Trade between Russia and Europe
According to Russia's state agency RIA, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that significant work needs to be done before any top-level meeting between Russia and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump informed European leaders that Russia earned €1.1 billion last year solely from selling fuel to the European Union. This amount is helping Russia continue the war in Ukraine.
Although Trump is pressuring countries doing business with Russia, he is also concerned that this could affect the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He stated that tariffs have already been imposed in the case of India. His focus is on ensuring that peace talks are not impacted despite economic pressure.
Tariff Already Imposed on India
Trump said that action has already been taken in the case of India. He imposed a 50% tariff on India for importing Russian oil. His message is that it is essential to make those who buy oil from Russia economically accountable.
