Trump's Tariffs Push India and Russia Closer to China
US President Donald Trump recently suggested that his trade policies have pushed India and Russia closer to China, causing the US to lose
these countries. This observation comes as the president's tariffs and public rebukes have strained ties with India.
Background and Context
The leaders of Russia, India, and China were seen together at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Tianjin, China. They remained present for the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of World War II in Beijing, where Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping presided over a military parade joined by other foreign dignitaries.
“Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China. May they have a long and prosperous future together,” Trump wrote on social media. This sentiment was echoed by the president's top trade adviser, Peter Navarro, who called the camaraderie between these leaders troublesome.
Key Developments
Trump's tariffs have been a point of contention with India. According to The Hindu, Democratic Whip Dick Durbin stated that Trump's trade policies have pushed India closer to China and Russia. Similarly, U.S. Congressman Jackson from Illinois criticized Trump's tariffs on India, stressing the need for a diplomatic reset between the two countries.
Meanwhile, US is pressuring EU nations to impose additional tariffs on India over its continued oil trade with Russia, according to reports by RT (Russia Today) and Axios. Washington previously imposed a 50% tariff on New Delhi over purchases of Russian oil.
On the other hand, Putin recently proposed joint investment projects with American firms, urging Washington to renew cooperation. Despite this, Trump accused Russia, China, and North Korea of conspiring
against the US.
Implications and Reactions
The ramifications of these strained relationships are wide-ranging. Some, like The Diplomat, suggest that with the decline in Indo-US ties and a setting American empire, India is diversifying its relations and increasing trade with Russia while resetting relations with China.
However, the narrative is not entirely negative. Despite the strained ties, Trump has also stated that he will always be friends
with Indian Prime Minister Modi and that there is nothing to worry
about regarding India-US ties.
Current Status
As the US continues to grapple with its changing relationships on the global stage, the future of its ties with India and Russia remains uncertain. However, the recent developments suggest a realignment of powers, with India and Russia growing closer to China, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape. The US's response to these changes will be closely watched in the coming months.