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Despite the ongoing tensions surrounding international trade, Russia notably did not appear on the list of nations targeted by tariffs announced by former President Donald Trump. This absence raised eyebrows, especially in light of existing sanctions that the United States has enforced on Russia since the country launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
According to a report from Axios, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt explained that the current sanctions imposed on Russia make meaningful trade impossible. Leavitt also pointed out that other countries, including Cuba, Belarus, and North Korea, were similarly excluded from the tariff list.
In stark contrast, countries with even less trade with the US, like Syria—which exported goods valued at approximately $11 million last year as per UN data—were included in the tariffs. This discrepancy highlights the complex nature of international trade relations.
Since his return to the White House, Trump’s rhetoric regarding Russia has shifted notably, often adopting a more conciliatory tone. He has set a goal to end the conflict in Ukraine and is actively seeking diplomatic solutions, as evidenced by a senior Russian official’s recent visit to Washington for discussions with his administration.
On another front, Trump recently issued a strong warning regarding the imposition of a substantial 50% tariff on nations purchasing Russian oil unless President Vladimir Putin agreed to a ceasefire.
In addition to the implications of the tariffs, Russian media outlets expressed their perspective on the situation, arguing that the lack of tariffs on Russia isn’t indicative of preferential treatment but rather a result of the extensive sanctions that are already in place. State-run Rossiya 24 TV made this argument clear, stating, “No tariffs have been imposed on Russia, but that’s not because of some special treatment.” Meanwhile, sister channel Rossiya 1 noted the absence of Russia from the tariff list, suggesting that this reality was met with disappointment in Western circles.
Commentary from Kremlin-aligned media included remarks from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who emphasized that trade with Russia and Belarus is non-existent due to sanctions. In 2024, reported imports from Russia amounted to approximately $3.5 billion (£2.7 billion), primarily comprised of fertilizers, nuclear fuel, and select metals.
Some Russian commentators adopted a satirical tone regarding the tariffs, with pro-Kremlin NTV claiming that Trump treats U.S. allies in Europe like “serfs” who only respond with dissatisfaction. Even peculiar inclusions on the tariff list, such as the uninhabited Heard Island and McDonald Islands, were mentioned, with Zvezda TV jesting that “Looks like it’s some penguins who will have to pay the 10% tariff.”
Turning to Ukraine, the new tariffs have resulted in a 10% tax on its exports to the US. First Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko indicated that this measure would predominantly impact smaller producers. She reinforced Ukraine’s commitment to negotiating better terms moving forward, citing that in 2024, Ukraine exported roughly $874 million (£642 million) in goods to the US while importing $3.4 billion.
Svyrydenko remarked, “Ukraine has much to offer the United States as a reliable ally and partner. Fair tariffs benefit both countries.” Despite the relatively modest scale of trade, the US has provided substantial material support to Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia, with Trump estimating U.S. aid at between $300 billion and $350 billion. The Department of Defense, however, reported that $182.8 billion has been allocated for support related to Operation Atlantic Resolve, encompassing military training in Europe and the replenishment of defense stockpiles.
Source
www.bbc.com