US President Donald Trump met Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday night to discuss the Ukraine conflict, but the talks ended without a breakthrough. The high-profile meeting has sparked speculation about potential changes in the US approach towards India and China, particularly on tariffs. He said he might reconsider imposing retaliatory tariffs on countries buying Russian oil, including India, leaving markets and policymakers uncertain about Washington’s next step.
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Trump’s Statement after Alaska Talks
After the Alaska talks, Trump told ‘Fox News’ host Sean Hannity: “Now, I may have to think about it in two weeks or three weeks or something, but we don’t have to think about that right now. I think, you know, the meeting went very well.”
His remarks suggested a temporary pause on any immediate tariff action against nations importing Russian oil, signalling a softer stance. India has maintained its policy on Russian oil while stressing that bilateral relations with the US extend beyond trade.
Breaking: Trump refuses to place tariffs on China for buying Russian energy despite tariffing India for the same reason
“I don’t have to think about that right now. I may have to think about it in 2-3 weeks. But the meeting with Putin went well,” says Trump on China tariffs pic.twitter.com/cEumaWjhmj
— Shashank Mattoo (@MattooShashank) August 16, 2025