Kyiv: Zelensky reacts to SCO summit optics
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has voiced strong support for the United States’ proposal to impose tariffs on countries that continue trade with Russia, indirectly referring to India’s economic ties with Moscow. His remarks came in response to questions about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visible warmth with Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin, China.
Zelensky calls tariffs a “right idea”
In an interview with ABC News, Zelensky said, “No. I think the idea to put tariffs on the countries who continue [to] make deals with Russia, I think this is [a] right idea.” The Ukrainian leader suggested that such economic measures were necessary to discourage nations from undermining sanctions against Moscow.
The comment followed widespread attention to the friendly gestures exchanged between Modi, Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the SCO summit, which some observers viewed as symbolic of growing non-Western alignment. Zelensky’s support for Washington’s tariff move underscores his call for stricter international action against Russia.
US pressures India over Russian oil
The Trump administration has been signalling stricter sanctions and tariff regimes against countries seen as facilitating Russia’s wartime economy. India, which continues to import discounted Russian crude oil, has frequently been mentioned in this context. Analysts believe New Delhi is attempting to balance its energy security needs with diplomatic engagements on both sides of the conflict.
India maintains peace-first stance
Just days before the SCO summit, Modi spoke with Zelensky and reaffirmed India’s backing for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis. The Prime Minister emphasised the need for dialogue and diplomacy, a position India has consistently maintained since the outbreak of the war. Zelensky expressed hope that India’s stance could help in building momentum for a ceasefire.
Despite Western criticism of its continued trade with Russia, India has reiterated that its decisions are guided by national interest and global stability. The SCO summit further highlighted New Delhi’s efforts to engage with both Western partners and traditional allies such as Russia.
Geopolitical implications
The exchange highlights the growing complexity of global diplomacy, with major powers aligning along new axes. The SCO, which includes China, Russia, India, and several Central Asian states, is increasingly being seen as a counterbalance to Western-led blocs.
Zelensky’s endorsement of tariffs illustrates Ukraine’s push for tougher global measures against Russia, while India’s emphasis on dialogue reflects its attempt to act as a bridge between conflicting camps. The episode also signals potential economic risks for India if U.S. tariffs are enforced, though experts note that Washington may weigh its strategic partnership with New Delhi before making drastic moves.
Conclusion
The remarks from Zelensky come at a sensitive diplomatic moment, as India navigates its ties with Russia while upholding its international credibility. With the U.S. considering wider tariffs and sanctions, and Ukraine urging stronger measures, New Delhi faces a delicate balancing act between energy security, strategic autonomy, and global expectations.