U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on Friday that while he is not immediately considering retaliatory tariffs on countries such as China for importing Russian oil, such measures could be revisited in the coming weeks. Trump has repeatedly warned of sanctions on Moscow, as well as secondary sanctions targeting nations that continue to purchase Russian crude, amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
China and India are currently the largest buyers of Russian oil. Last week, Trump imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports due to the country’s continued purchases from Russia, while similar action against China has not yet been taken.
Following a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, Trump suggested that any potential sanctions on China might be considered in “two or three weeks,” but noted that no immediate action is necessary.
The remarks come amid ongoing trade negotiations between the U.S. and China. Both nations are exploring agreements that could reduce tensions and lower import taxes, but China remains a potential target for additional punitive measures linked to Russian energy imports. Economic analysts note that heightened tariffs could impact China’s slowing economy, which has already faced challenges due to a combination of domestic and international pressures.
Trump’s comments highlight the complex intersection of U.S. foreign policy, trade strategy, and global energy markets, as policymakers weigh responses to Russia’s actions in Ukraine while balancing broader trade relationships with major global economies.
Source: Reuters
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