On the eve of a crucial summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that his tariffs on India had “essentially removed” the country from purchasing Russian oil — a move he suggested may have influenced Moscow’s readiness to negotiate.
Speaking to Fox News Radio’s The Brian Kilmeade Show on Thursday, Trump said he believed Putin “wants to get it done” and is prepared to strike a deal when the two leaders meet on Friday.
“Everything has an impact,” Trump said, referring to his economic measures, particularly secondary tariffs targeting India. “When you lose your second-largest customer and might lose your largest, it probably plays a role.”
India’s Role in Russia’s Oil Market
India has been Russia’s second-largest oil buyer in recent years. Trump asserted that his tariffs significantly disrupted that trade flow, applying economic pressure on Moscow ahead of the summit.
Possible Economic Incentives for Russia
When asked whether the U.S. might offer Russia economic incentives in exchange for ending the Ukraine war, Trump declined to reveal specifics, saying he would not “play [his] hand in public.” He did, however, call Russia’s oil and gas industry “a very profitable business” with “tremendous potential.”
Next Steps if Talks Succeed
Trump indicated that a positive outcome on Friday could be followed by an immediate call to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, inviting him to a follow-up meeting — potentially in Alaska for logistical ease.
“If it’s a bad meeting, I’m going home,” Trump said. “If it’s a good meeting, I’ll call Zelensky and European leaders right away.”
High Stakes and Risks
The U.S. President estimated a 25% chance of failure, warning that unsuccessful talks could lead to further sanctions on Moscow. While stressing he would not personally broker the Russia–Ukraine deal, Trump said he would leave negotiations to Putin and Zelensky.
Media and Public Statements
Trump confirmed he would hold a press conference after the summit, possibly alongside Putin. “It might be nice to have a joint one, then separate ones,” he noted.
As global attention turns to Alaska, the meeting could either pave the way for a breakthrough in the Ukraine conflict or escalate geopolitical tensions — with India’s unexpected role in Russian oil trade emerging as a key talking point.
