Tensions escalate between the United States and Russia, as Washington considers countermeasures due to allegations of China and India's involvement in questionable activities.

In a series of moves that could reshape global trade relationships, President Donald Trump is moving to further isolate Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine and is considering raising tariffs on imported Indian goods.

The Kremlin's trade relationships with China and India could soon come under scrutiny, as the hike in duties signals a widening rift between the U.S. and India, the world's fourth-largest economy. Trump has said he would "substantially" raise tariffs on imported Indian goods due to their continued purchase and resale of sanctioned Russian oil.

India, which purchases around $133 billion in Russian oil, could find itself in a delicate position. The total trade between the U.S. and India is valued at nearly $130 billion in 2024, with U.S. exports to India worth $41 billion, while imports from India are at $87 billion. Trump has also pointed to a nearly $46 billion trade deficit India ran with the U.S. last year.

Meanwhile, China, which imports an estimated $220 billion in Russian oil, could face similar pressure. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent identified China's support for sanctioned oil as a central point of contention during trade talks with Beijing. Bessent conducted negotiations with countries including India and Turkey last year, with key meetings held in cities such as New Delhi, India, and Istanbul, Turkey.

In a bid to ease tensions, President Trump has agreed to a temporary trade truce with China, with Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick saying that Trump would likely extend the trade deadline by another 90 days. The current U.S. levy on most Chinese imports stands at 30%, but China has placed a 10% duty on American imports.

As the trade talks between the U.S. and China continue, Trump is considering a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the "not-too-distant future." Previously, Bessent led trade negotiations with the Chinese in Geneva in May and London in June.

While no new information about India-U.S. trade or tariffs was provided in this paragraph, the ongoing developments serve as a reminder of the complex web of global trade relationships and the potential for significant shifts in the near future.

Tensions escalate between the United States and Russia, as Washington considers countermeasures due to allegations of China and India's involvement in questionable activities.