Threats To India, China Won't Work: Russian Minister's Warning To Trump

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has issued a warning that US pressure tactics involving tariffs will prove ineffective against major powers like India and China, describing them as "ancient civilisations" that won't submit to ultimatums.

During an appearance on Russia's Channel 1 TV program 'The Great Game', Lavrov criticized American demands for countries such as China and India to cease purchasing Russian energy resources. He explained that such pressure is actually driving these nations to explore alternative energy markets and sources, ultimately forcing them to pay higher prices.

Recent weeks have seen Trump and senior US officials accuse India of financing the Ukraine war through its Russian oil purchases, allegations that New Delhi firmly rejects.

Lavrov emphasized that there has been significant "moral and political" resistance to the American approach. "Both China and India are ancient civilisations, and using language like 'either stop doing what I don't like, or I'll impose tariffs on you' simply won't be effective with them," he stated.

Regarding the prospect of fresh sanctions against Russia, Lavrov expressed little concern. "To be honest, I don't see any issue with new sanctions on Russia. During President Donald Trump's first term, an unprecedented number of sanctions were already imposed," he remarked.

"We began drawing conclusions when the West implemented these sanctions. Later, under President Joe Biden's administration, sanctions became a substitute for genuine diplomatic efforts. There was no attempt to find compromise," Lavrov added.

India has characterized the US position as "unfair, unjustified and unreasonable." In defending its Russian crude oil purchases, India maintains that its energy procurement decisions are based on national interest and market dynamics.

While the Trump administration has not yet levied tariffs on China for its Russian oil imports, the US president has been advocating for such measures.