Trump backs bill to tax buyers of Russian oil with tariffs plan

US President Donald Trump said his administration is moving toward new legislation that would empower Washington to swiftly impose tariffs on countries importing Russian oil, positioning the measure as a tool to pressure Moscow over the war in Ukraine. Trump said the proposal would give the White House flexibility to raise duties quickly, targeting energy revenues that help finance Russia’s military campaign.

Tariff authority aimed at oil trade

Speaking to reporters during a flight back to Washington, Trump said the bill under discussion would enable fast action against buyers of Russian crude. He pointed to India as an example, noting previous tariff hikes tied to New Delhi’s energy trade with Moscow. Senator Lindsey Graham, who was traveling with Trump, said reduced oil purchases would directly weaken what he described as Russia’s ability to sustain the war.

Economic pressure and diplomacy

Trump argued that Russia’s economy remains under strain as the conflict approaches its fourth year amid Western sanctions. The administration has cast economic pressure as part of a broader diplomatic push to end the fighting, following recent talks between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Florida, alongside coordination with allies, including NATO members such as Türkiye.

Claims of attack and US assessment

Addressing separate allegations from Moscow, Trump said he does not believe reports that Ukraine carried out a drone strike on a residence used by Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod region. “I don’t believe that strike happened,” he said, adding that US intelligence assessments found no evidence supporting the claim. Trump said Washington hopes both sides “get it settled,” underscoring his stated aim of bringing the Russia-Ukraine war to a close.