US urges G7 to impose steep tariffs on China and India over Russian oil purchases, aiming to boost international pressure and energy diplomacy
In a significant shift of strategy, the United States is actively advocating for the implementation of substantial tariffs on countries like China and India due to their ongoing purchases of Russian oil.
This move is part of a broader diplomatic effort to influence global energy markets and international politics amidst ongoing conflicts.
According to sources familiar with the plans, the U.S.
is proposing tariff increases ranging from 50% to 100% on crude oil imports from Russia to pressure Moscow into entering peace negotiations with Ukraine.
During a virtual meeting on Friday, finance ministers from leading G7 economies discussed this proposal, aiming to intensify efforts to support Ukraine and strengthen sanctions against Russia.
A U.S.
Treasury spokesperson stated that Chinese and Indian purchases of Russian oil fund Putin’s military activities and perpetuate the suffering of the Ukrainian population.
While the exact tariff figures have not been officially disclosed, insiders suggest they could reach up to 100%.
Canada, presiding over G7, confirmed that discussions are underway to further tighten the economic squeeze on Russia by restricting its military equipment supply.
Experts warn that these tariffs may extend beyond direct imports, targeting countries that purchase energy through indirect channels or bypass mechanisms.
Notably, the U.S.
has already increased tariffs on Indian imports to 50% due to Russian oil imports, and earlier in the year, Trump imposed additional tariffs on Chinese goods, later relaxing them amid market reactions.
Meanwhile, the EU is contemplating sanctions against China for buying inexpensive Russian energy sources, although many member states still import roughly 20% of their gas from Russia.
Brussels is urging Washington to consider alternative pressure measures, such as intensifying sanctions on Russian energy producers and extending the embargo deadline to 2027, thereby consolidating a unified front to support Ukraine while reducing dependency on Russian energy.