Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has supported the idea of the United States imposing tariffs on countries like India that continue to engage in trade with Russia. In an interview with ABC News, Zelensky said that nations doing business with Moscow during the ongoing conflict should face economic consequences. His remarks came soon after former US President Donald Trump and his administration signaled an expansion of sanctions against Russia, specifically pointing to India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil. Trump’s recent summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska ended without any breakthrough, further intensifying debates over sanctions.
Officials from Trump’s National Economic Council also highlighted India’s role in maintaining economic ties with Russia. Kevin Hassett, the Council’s director, stated that countries indirectly aiding Russia’s war efforts, such as India through energy imports, could soon face penalties. He said Washington is preparing to tighten enforcement to ensure sanctions are not bypassed. This development comes amid heightened Russian military strikes in Ukraine, which have added pressure on Kyiv’s allies to broaden their punitive measures.
Despite these tensions, India has stepped up diplomatic efforts in recent weeks to mediate an end to the Ukraine war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Zelensky twice last month, reiterating India’s stance for a peaceful resolution. Modi also held discussions with top European leaders including Ursula von der Leyen, Antonio Costa, and Emmanuel Macron, underlining New Delhi’s desire to contribute toward peace. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar assured his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha that India continues to support initiatives for an early ceasefire and lasting stability in the region.
