NATO Chief Warns India, China, Brazil of Possible U.S. Sanctions Over Russia Ties
While in Washington, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned that countries like India, China, and Brazil could face secondary U.S. sanctions if they continue trading with Russia amid the Ukraine war.
Speaking alongside U.S. Senators, Rutte revealed that President Donald Trump has threatened to impose harsh tariffs and sanctions — up to 100% on Russia — if peace talks don’t start within 50 days. Nations still supporting Russian trade, especially in oil and weapons, could be heavily affected.
Rutte urged global leaders to pressure President Putin toward meaningful negotiations. “If you don’t act, this will hit your economies hard,” he said, directly addressing Brazil, China, and India.
The U.S. also announced a major military aid push to Ukraine, funded by Europe, including missiles, ammunition, and air defenses. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers are pushing a bipartisan sanctions bill that would slap a 500% tariff on imports from countries purchasing Russian energy and materials.
Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Thom Tillis supported continued U.S. support for Ukraine but expressed concern about giving Russia a 50-day window, fearing it could give Putin time to strengthen his military position.