There’s a growing belief that former US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats are aimed solely at bringing India to its knees. But that’s only part of a much larger geopolitical strategy.
Analysts suggest that Trump's broader plan is to isolate Russia by forcing its allies, notably India and China, to distance themselves. His tactic? Use trade pressure and economic threats to push them away from Moscow.
It’s not just about alienating Russia; there are even whispers that Trump seeks confrontation, perhaps even a war, with Russia, to win favor with the European Union.
This might explain why, despite previously insulting Ukraine's President Zelensky and raising eyebrows globally, Trump still keeps up pressure on countries buying oil from Russia. That suggests Washington isn’t cozying up to Moscow after all.
Instead, Trump’s ultimate goal seems to be maintaining global dominance, with the US dollar at the center and other nations making sacrifices to keep America number one in trade and economy. A businessman to the core, Trump appears to view geopolitics purely through a commercial lens.
Ironically, while he plays the tough negotiator, Trump also craves global recognition, including a Nobel Peace Prize. This desire for prestige partly explains his warmer approach toward Pakistan, which nominated him. In contrast, India’s refusal to do so may have widened the gap between the two nations.
Still, India’s stance remains interesting. Despite Trump’s steep 50% tariffs, India hasn’t hit back with counter tariffs the way China did. Many wonder why.
The answer may lie in Prime Minister Modi’s strategic patience, choosing not to escalate, hoping to preserve long term US-India ties rather than reacting impulsively.
While China responded aggressively due to its history of rivalry with the US, India seems to be taking a more measured path.
Kiran Sharma
