China, Türkiye and India may drop Russian oil - Ukrainian expert
Illustrative photo: three countries may drop Russian oil (Getty Images)
Tough secondary sanctions from the United States could force China, Türkiye, and India to halt imports of Russian oil, said former Ukrainian presidential advisor Oleg Ustenko in a commentary to RBC-Ukraine.
Ustenko noted that while these three countries are among the largest buyers of Russian oil, they are unlikely to risk damaging relations with Washington if tariffs are imposed.
"China is unlikely to strain its relationship with the US right now, especially after recent progress in resolving their trade disputes. At this point, it’s easier for Beijing to stop buying Russian oil than to enter into a new confrontation with Washington. I believe the Chinese will agree (to step back from Russian oil - ed.)," Ustenko said.
He also suggested Türkiye would likely follow suit, as it is currently engaged in trade talks with the US following Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs.
“Türkiye will probably agree as well, especially if it receives added benefits in its trade deal with the US," he added.
As for India, Ustenko said New Delhi may also be open to cutting ties with Russian oil due to its current tensions with Pakistan.
"In this conflict, it is not particularly beneficial for India to lose US support," he emphasized.
Possible US sanctions
Earlier, Senator Lindsey Graham said that he had introduced a bill to Congress to impose new sanctions on Russia. It is supported by the majority of senators.
This document stipulates that the United States will impose a 500% duty on every country that buys oil, oil products, natural gas or uranium from Russia.
