After slapping 50% tariffs on Indian exports, Trump now hints at harsher measures over New Delhi’s Russian oil imports.
BY PC Bureau
US President Donald Trump indicated on Sunday that he is prepared to move to a “second phase” of sanctions against Russia—and against countries that continue to buy its oil, a step that could directly impact India.
The remarks followed Russia’s largest aerial assault on Ukraine in recent memory, which struck a key government complex in Kyiv. When asked at the White House if he was ready for new sanctions targeting Russia or its oil customers, Trump gave a terse reply: “Yeah, I am,” without elaborating.
The administration’s shift reflects frustration over the grinding conflict, particularly after earlier US peace efforts failed to secure a ceasefire. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington and the EU are weighing “secondary tariffs” on nations importing Russian oil, arguing that only a collapse of Russia’s economy could force President Vladimir Putin to negotiate.
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India, a key buyer of discounted Russian crude, has already come under pressure. Just last month, Washington imposed a 25% penal tariff on Indian exports to the US, doubling the overall duty to 50%. Trump has repeatedly accused New Delhi of “fuelling the Russian war machine,” while India maintains its purchases are vital for national energy security.
Q: You’re frustrated with Putin, but no action?
Trump: No action? I hit India, Russia’s top buyer after China, with secondary sanctions, costing Russia hundreds of billions. That’s action. Phase 2 & 3 still to come. I warned: if India buys, they’ll have big problems. 4/ pic.twitter.com/iItu9mPU7K
— Tymofiy Mylovanov (@Mylovanov) September 4, 2025
The tougher stance comes even as Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently exchanged warm words online, hinting at a thaw in ties.
War Escalates in Ukraine
On the battlefield, Russia unleashed 810 drones and decoys in its largest aerial attack since the war began. Ukraine’s air force said it destroyed 747 drones and four missiles, but four civilians were killed and a government building in Kyiv was damaged.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was ready to meet Putin for peace talks, while urging Trump to impose harsh sanctions to push Moscow toward ending the war.
