US, EU Plan Secondary Sanctions on Russian Oil Buyers, India Facing Tariffs

The United States and European Union are coordinating to impose a new series of secondary sanctions aimed at curbing Russia's trade networks, particularly targeting countries and businesses engaging with Russia's energy and financial sectors. These measures, which could include blocking access to Western banking, freezing assets, and tariffs on countries importing Russian oil, seek to cripple Russia's economy by limiting its revenue streams, especially from oil exports. India and China remain significant buyers of Russian crude, with India emphasizing energy security despite Western pressure and China maintaining substantial imports through alternative payment systems. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed readiness to escalate sanctions to a "second stage" to pressure Russia further, contingent on EU cooperation, while also preparing to discuss the Ukraine conflict with Putin and European leaders. However, divisions persist within the EU, as some member states reliant on Russian energy imports resist measures that could threaten their supply. The anticipated sanctions package includes targeting Russian banks, payment systems, crypto exchanges, and oil trade, but unanimous EU approval remains uncertain.