Former US President Donald Trump has proposed a potential solution to end the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, focusing on the role of oil. Trump suggested that if all NATO member countries collectively stopped purchasing oil from Russia, it could contribute to halting the conflict. Additionally, he recommended imposing tariffs of 50% to 100% on China for its acquisition of Russian petroleum, believing it would weaken the ties between the two nations.
In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump criticized NATO members who continue to buy Russian oil, labeling their actions as “shocking.” He expressed disappointment in the defense alliance’s efforts to resolve the war, describing them as inadequate. Trump emphasized the need for unified sanctions on Russia by all NATO nations and the cessation of oil purchases from Russia as essential steps to take.
Turkey, a member of NATO, ranks as the third-largest buyer of Russian oil after China and India, as reported by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. Other countries within the 32-state alliance, such as Hungary and Slovakia, are also involved in procuring Russian oil.
Amid escalating tensions in the conflict, highlighted by the recent incident of Russian drones entering Polish airspace, Trump downplayed the severity of the situation, suggesting it may have been a mistake. Despite his initial promise to swiftly end the war during his candidacy, Trump has faced challenges in applying effective pressure to bring about peace and has been criticized for hesitating to confront Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Efforts are underway in Congress to push for stricter sanctions against Russia, following a meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska that yielded limited progress towards peace. The US, along with its allies, aims to demonstrate a stronger stance against Russia in response to recent provocations.
During an emergency meeting at the UN Security Council, acting US ambassador Dorothy Shea reaffirmed America’s commitment to defending NATO territory and condemned the incursion of Russian drones into Poland as a disrespectful act towards US peace initiatives.
In a parallel move, Britain announced sanctions on the trading of Russian oil, including a ban on vessels involved in its transportation and penalties on individuals and entities supplying Russia with military components. Trump called for a NATO ban on Russian oil and tariffs on China as crucial steps to help end the conflict.
Trump proposed imposing 50% to 100% tariffs on China and potentially lifting them once the conflict with Russia over Ukraine concludes. He highlighted China’s significant influence on Russia and pointed out the existing 25% import tax on Indian goods due to their purchase of Russian energy products.
While Trump attributed responsibility for the war to his predecessor Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, he notably omitted Russian President Vladimir Putin, who initiated the invasion. Negotiations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are being considered to address tariff disputes with India.
In conclusion, Trump’s stance reflects a push for collective action within NATO to curb oil purchases from Russia and impose tariffs on China as strategic measures to help resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.