President Donald Trump has issued a conditional threat to India and China, warning of 100% tariffs on their goods if the European Union agrees to join the United States in the action. This high-stakes proposal is aimed at ending the war in Ukraine by creating unbearable economic pressure on Russia’s most significant international partners. The plan was formally presented to EU officials this week.
The administration’s stance is one of “all or nothing,” with a White House official stating that the US will only proceed with European participation. This strategy is driven by Trump’s frustration with the stalled peace process and is a direct response to Russia’s ongoing military aggression. By making the move conditional, Trump is sharing both the power and the potential backlash with the EU.
The focus on India and China comes after Putin publicly strengthened his ties with both nations, which have provided Russia with a crucial economic buffer against Western sanctions. The US has already acted against India with a 50% tariff hike, but this new plan seeks to create a much broader and more impactful economic coalition.
The entire initiative, however, is on uncertain legal ground. The US Supreme Court is poised to rule on the legality of the president’s tariff powers, a decision that could either validate his approach or force a costly and embarrassing retreat, including the refund of tens of billions of dollars.