*Warns of “a lot more” secondary sanctions in response to journalist’squestion*
In a significant remark that could reshape global trade dynamics, formerU.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday hinted at a broader sanctionsstrategy, following his controversial comments targeting India over itscontinued purchase of Russian oil.
When asked by a journalist why he had specifically singled outIndia—despite numerous other nations also engaging in oil trade withRussia—Trump responded bluntly:*”You’re going to see a lot more. You’re going to see a lot of secondarysanctions.”*
The former president’s comments come amid increasing scrutiny of global oilflows that bypass Western sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion ofUkraine. Trump’s statement has stirred speculation that if he returns tooffice, a much tougher stance could be adopted toward nations trading withMoscow, including traditional U.S. allies and strategic partners.
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, has significantly increasedits purchase of discounted Russian crude over the past two years, citingnational interest and energy security. New Delhi has repeatedly defendedits stance, asserting that it maintains a neutral position in theRussia-Ukraine conflict and seeks to diversify its energy sources.
Trump’s veiled warning signals a potential shift in American policyposture. The mention of “secondary sanctions” indicates that countries orentities doing business with sanctioned Russian sectors could themselvesface penalties — a move that could complicate international energy marketsand diplomatic relations.
Read Top Stories
While the U.S. has so far focused mainly on primary sanctions targetingRussian entities directly, Trump’s comments suggest a broader enforcementmechanism could be in play if he returns to power in 2025.
Diplomatic observers warn that this approach could put significant pressureon countries like India, Turkey, and even some European firms that continuelimited dealings with Russia.
As global reactions unfold, New Delhi has yet to issue an official responseto Trump’s remarks. However, analysts note that any imposition of secondarysanctions on India would mark a major flashpoint in U.S.-India relations,which have deepened over the last two decades.
The coming days may see more clarity on how seriously Trump’s warning willbe taken in both Washington and world capitals.