EU rejects Trump's call for tariffs on China and India, proposes counteroffer

The European Union (EU) has decided not to impose tariffs on China and India in response to a request from U.S. President Donald Trump. This announcement comes as part of the EU"s nineteenth sanctions package against Russia, which was revealed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Friday.

During a recent meeting between EU sanctions experts and U.S. officials, Trump reportedly called for the EU to implement steep tariffs on India and China. Following this, he stated on social media that NATO countries should impose tariffs ranging from 50% to 100% on China, to be lifted after the conflict between Russia and Ukraine concludes.

Analysts suggest that Trump"s demands may be unrealistic and could serve as a delaying tactic to avoid imposing sanctions himself. The current U.S. administration has expressed skepticism about sanctions, viewing them as a factor driving countries to seek alternatives to the dollar. Furthermore, Trump has shown reluctance to impose additional sanctions on Russia, citing concerns that such actions could jeopardize ongoing negotiations.

In her remarks, von der Leyen indicated that the EU is considering tougher measures against China and India, particularly targeting cryptocurrencies, banking, and energy firms that assist Russia in evading sanctions. The EU aims to engage with Trump on reducing Russia"s energy exports to Europe while maintaining low global oil prices.

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As a counteroffer, the EU may propose enhanced enforcement against price-cap evasion and suggest a joint secondary-sanctions regime with the United States, which could pressure Beijing and New Delhi to decrease their purchases of Russian oil and natural gas. Such measures could significantly impact the global oil market.