Trump Links Russia Sanctions to NATO Action, Suggests Tariffs on China

AFP | Washington – US President Donald Trump said yesterday that he is prepared to impose major sanctions on Russia—but only if all NATO allies agree to halt Russian oil purchases and implement their own sanctions.

Trump also suggested that NATO members consider imposing tariffs of 50 to 100 percent on China, which he said could help end Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“I am ready to do major sanctions on Russia when all NATO nations have agreed and started to do the same thing, and when all NATO nations stop buying oil from Russia,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, framing the post as a message to NATO nations and the international community.

Trump has repeatedly threatened additional sanctions on Moscow, most recently following Russia’s largest-ever aerial assault on Ukraine, as a means of hitting the revenue that sustains the Kremlin’s war. However, he has yet to implement these measures, frustrating Kyiv.

After meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin last month at a summit in Alaska, Trump criticized NATO nations for continuing to purchase Russian oil, calling it “shocking” and a move that undermines their bargaining power over Moscow.

“Anyway, I am ready to ‘go’ when you are. Just say when?” he wrote.

Trump also highlighted China’s role, noting that Beijing has strengthened its strategic cooperation with Moscow. He proposed that NATO impose significant tariffs on China, which he said could help pressure both nations and contribute to ending the conflict.

“I believe that NATO sanctions on Russia, plus NATO placing 50% to 100% tariffs on China until the war in Ukraine is over, will be of great help in ending this deadly, but ridiculous, war,” Trump said. “China has strong control—and even a grip—over Russia, and these tariffs will break that grip.”

He added, “If the 32-member alliance does as I say, the war will end quickly. If not, you are just wasting my time.”