New Delhi: The White House has said that US President Donald Trump’s decision to double tariffs on Indian goods to 50% is part of his strategy to exert indirect pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Wednesday that Trump’s move was designed to “put tremendous public pressure” to bring the conflict to a close. “The President has been clear that he wants to see this war end quickly. He has taken actions, including sanctions on India and other measures, to accelerate that outcome,” she said.
Leavitt also reiterated Trump’s claim that he played a decisive role in ending hostilities between India and Pakistan. “We have seen progress not just with Russia and Ukraine but in the closing of seven global conflicts. That includes the release of hostages in Gaza and the end of the conflict between India and Pakistan, which could have escalated into a nuclear confrontation,” she asserted.
She further said Trump had used trade as “powerful leverage” in persuading New Delhi and Islamabad to step back. Since May 10, when Trump announced that India and Pakistan had agreed to a “full and immediate” ceasefire following US-mediated talks, the President has repeatedly claimed credit for de-escalating tensions.
However, India has consistently rejected this version, clarifying that the ceasefire understanding was reached directly through talks between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi told Parliament that “no foreign leader” had asked India to halt Operation Sindoor.
