Zelenskyy Supports US Tariff
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed strong support for imposing tariffs on countries that maintain economic relations with Russia, including ongoing purchases of Russian oil and gas. Speaking to ABC News, Zelensky called Trump’s approach of targeting nations trading with Russia “the right idea” and emphasized the need to halt all deals with Moscow to weaken its war effort.
His comments came amid images from the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. India and China remain major buyers of Russian energy, contributing significantly to Moscow’s revenue since the war in Ukraine began in March 2022. Zelensky criticized European countries that still import Russian energy, calling such practices “not fair” given the ongoing conflict.
The remarks coincide with U.S. President Donald Trump signaling a potential “second phase” of sanctions, aimed at nations continuing to purchase Russian oil. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that secondary tariffs by the U.S. and EU could severely impact Russia’s economy and pressure Putin to negotiate.
Last month, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports, effectively raising duties to 50%, accusing New Delhi of aiding Russia’s war effort. India has defended its energy strategy, citing national interest and emphasizing that it will continue securing the best deals for its economy and population. Meanwhile, Russia is strengthening energy ties with China, planning to expand gas exports to the Asian giant as Moscow seeks alternative markets in the face of Western sanctions.
Zelensky’s stance highlights Ukraine’s push for maximum economic pressure on Russia while signaling support for U.S. sanctions against countries aiding Moscow.
