London ( The COW News Digital)Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has voiced support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to increase tariffs on Indian imports, calling the move “brave and logical.” Without directly naming India, Johnson criticized countries that continue to purchase oil from Russia, arguing that they are indirectly funding President Vladimir Putin’s war machine in Ukraine.
Speaking to British media, Johnson said:
“Donald Trump has done a brave and sensible thing by finally holding accountable those nations still importing Russian oil and gas. These funds are fueling a monstrous war, and it’s high time the world responds with consequences.”
On Wednesday, President Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, raising the total American tariff on India to 50%. The White House explained the move by citing India’s continued direct and indirect imports of Russian oil, despite international efforts to economically isolate Moscow over its ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Trump further labeled India as “not a fair trade partner”, accusing it of undermining global sanctions by enabling Russian revenues through energy imports.
“India continues to fuel the war machine in Ukraine by buying oil from Russia. That’s not acceptable,” Trump stated during a press briefing.
Boris Johnson echoed this sentiment, questioning the silence and inaction of Europe and the UK, asking:
“When will Britain and the rest of Europe find the courage to follow suit?”
The comments have sparked intense diplomatic friction. India’s Ministry of External Affairs swiftly condemned the new tariffs, calling them “unjustified, deeply regrettable, and unfair.” In an official statement, India said that its actions were in line with its national interests, and comparable to steps taken by other sovereign states.
“We will take all necessary measures to protect our national interests,” the Indian government declared, adding that the U.S. move was politically motivated and disruptive to global trade norms.
The escalating rhetoric signals growing tension between Washington and New Delhi, once considered key strategic allies in the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, European leaders are now under pressure to respond to Trump’s aggressive trade strategy, especially as energy and economic ties with Russia remain a contentious issue in global geopolitics.
