US Vice President JD Vance stated on Sunday that President Donald Trump has adopted a strategy of applying aggressive economic pressure on Russia, including imposing secondary tariffs on India, to stop Russia from bombarding Ukraine.
JD Vance explained on NBC News' 'Meet the Press' that these measures aim to cut down Russia's oil income, potentially crippling its ability to continue the war. Vance expressed confidence that despite potential obstacles from recent meetings between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, the US can play a mediating role in ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
When questioned about how pressure can be applied to Russia without new sanctions and how negotiation can be brought about with Zelenskyy to halt the attacks, Vance emphasized that Trump has placed significant economic pressure on Russia. He noted, for instance, imposing extra tariffs on India to challenge Russia's oil revenues. Trump attempted to convey that if Russia halts its aggression, it could rejoin the global economy, but if it continues, isolation would be inescapable.
The Dual Nature of American Policies
The Trump administration has persistently criticized India for purchasing cheap crude oil from Russia, while Washington has remained publicly silent on China's massive oil purchases from Russia. Nevertheless, India has consistently clarified that its energy needs and acquisitions are driven by national interest and market conditions.
Trump Doubles Tariffs on India
By doubling tariffs to 50% on Indian goods, Trump has increased tensions in the Indo-US relationship. The US accuses India of supporting Moscow's Ukraine war through its oil purchases, a claim India sternly refutes. Following Russia's assault on Ukraine in February 2022, Western nations imposed sanctions, ceasing energy supplies. Subsequently, India began procuring discounted Russian oil.
Jaishankar's Significant Statement
In an event held in New Delhi on Saturday, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar remarked that it is curious how an administration that claims to support trade accuses others of trading. Jaishankar pointed out the irony and warned that if there's an issue with purchasing oil or refined products from India, then don't. He emphasized that Europe and the US also make purchases, stating, 'If you don't favor it, then refrain from buying.'
