Zelensky: ‘Right Idea’ to Tariff Countries Trading with Russia
- Shivani Garg
- 09 September 2025
INTRODUCTION
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has endorsed the imposition of tariffs on countries continuing to trade with Russia, calling it a “right idea” to weaken Moscow’s war economy. His remarks come amid escalating U.S.–India tensions after President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian imports, citing New Delhi’s discounted purchases of Russian oil.
BACKGROUND OF THE CASE
In late August 2025, the U.S. raised tariffs on Indian imports—first to 25%, later to 50%.
Washington’s justification: India’s continued purchase of cheap Russian crude, which the U.S. claims indirectly funds Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
The tariff escalation has strained U.S.–India relations, sparking diplomatic and economic fallout.
ZELENSKY’S STATEMENT
Speaking to ABC News, Zelensky said: “I think the idea to put tariffs on the countries who continue make deals with Russia is the right idea.”
He explained that tariffs and secondary sanctions create a race of endurance: “how long can the Ukrainian military hold up, versus how long can the Russian economy hold up?”
Zelensky stressed that reducing Russia’s oil revenue through such measures is critical to forcing President Putin to the negotiating table.
STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS
Alignment with Western Strategy: The endorsement strengthens Ukraine’s diplomatic campaign to isolate Russia economically and politically.
Message to Neutral States: Though unnamed, the comments target India and other non-aligned states still maintaining strong trade ties with Moscow.
Economic Leverage: Tariffs are presented as tools to accelerate Russia’s economic decline, thereby complementing battlefield efforts.
BROADER IMPACT AND ANALYSIS
Analysts caution that U.S. tariffs on India could backfire, pushing New Delhi closer to Moscow and incentivizing larger discounted oil deals.
Instead of weakening Russia, such shifts may strengthen alternative trading blocs, undermining U.S. objectives.
Zelensky’s support reflects solidarity with Washington but also reveals the diplomatic risks of over-reliance on punitive trade measures.
CONCLUSION
Zelensky’s endorsement of tariffs underscores the growing global divide over how to handle Russia’s wartime economy. While designed to isolate Moscow, such measures risk unintended realignments that could reshape international trade and diplomacy. The balance between economic punishment and strategic fallout remains precarious.
