U.S. Warns China Over Russian Oil Purchases; 25% Tariffs on India Take Effect August 1

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced new 25% tariffs on imports from India. The measure is set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and was publicized via his Truth Social platform, Orda.kz reports.

Trump criticized India for acquiring military equipment and energy resources from Russia, calling such purchases an obstacle to ending the war in Ukraine:

The decision follows failed trade negotiations between the U.S. and India.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. imports from India totaled $87 billion last year, while U.S. exports to India amounted to $42 billion. The leading imports from India included pharmaceuticals, telecommunications equipment, and clothing.

Meanwhile, China has not committed to cutting purchases of Russian oil, despite mounting pressure from Washington.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, after two days of talks with Chinese officials in Stockholm, said he warned Beijing that continuing to buy sanctioned Russian oil could trigger major tariffs under pending U.S. legislation — up to 500%. 

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Reuters that China has signaled it will “defend its energy sovereignty,” with oil buying based on internal policy priorities amid threats of tariffs for buying Russian oil.

He added that China’s continued purchases of Iranian oil and the sale of dual-use goods to Russia (valued over $15 billion) were harming its reputation in Europe. 

Trump has already shortened the deadline for Russia to show progress toward peace in Ukraine — 10 to 12 days —  starting July 28.