Washington( The COW News Digital)U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that China could face additional tariffs for continuing to purchase oil from Russia, a move he claims is undermining Western efforts to curb Moscow’s war efforts in Ukraine.
In a press briefing, President Trump confirmed that India is already facing a 50% tariff on its exports to the U.S., following his administration’s decision to impose an additional 25% duty this week. He indicated that China could be next in line, citing its continued oil trade with Russia as a justification for possible punitive economic measures.
“Buying oil from Russia is fueling the war machine in Ukraine,” Trump told reporters. “If China continues these purchases, we will not hesitate to impose tough tariffs.”
Trump added that final decisions on tariffs for Russia will be determined later, but emphasized that the U.S. is considering a 100% tariff on imports of microchips and semiconductors, signaling a broader strategy targeting high-tech trade dependencies.
The President also addressed Iran during the briefing, issuing a stark warning that any attempt by Tehran to revive its nuclear program could lead to a military response. “We will not allow Iran to play games with nuclear weapons. If they try, we will strike,” he stated firmly.
These statements come as White House officials confirmed the recent meeting between Trump’s special envoy Steve Whitcoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. According to the Kremlin, the meeting was described as “constructive and productive,” although no immediate breakthroughs were announced.
The escalating tariff regime is part of Trump’s renewed foreign policy platform, which emphasizes economic pressure over military confrontation. However, critics argue that such tariffs could ignite a global trade war, especially with major economies like China and India.
The White House defended the move, stating that India’s indirect and direct oil purchases from Russia warranted a firm response. “India is not acting as a responsible trade partner,” Trump said. “Their ongoing support of Russian energy is unacceptable.”
Analysts warn that these developments could significantly impact global supply chains and increase tensions between the U.S. and key Asian economies, just months before the U.S. presidential elections.
