NATO Chief to India, China: Stop Trading With Russia or Face 100% Sanctions

NATO Chief Warns India, China, Brazil of Harsh Sanctions Over Russia Ties.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has warned that countries like India, China, and Brazil could face sweeping secondary sanctions if they continue doing business with Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking to reporters after meeting U.S. lawmakers on Wednesday, Rutte said, “If you live in Beijing or Delhi, or you’re the president of Brazil, you may want to seriously consider your trade ties with Russia—because this could hit you very hard.”

The warning follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a new weapons package for Ukraine, along with a threat to impose 100% tariffs on countries buying Russian exports, unless a peace deal is reached within 50 days.

Rutte urged leaders in these countries to press Russian President Vladimir Putin to commit to peace talks. “Please make the call to Putin and tell him to get serious about peace, or this will slam back on Brazil, India, and China in a massive way,” he said.

U.S. Senator Thom Tillis supported Trump’s proposal but expressed concern that Putin might exploit the 50-day window to strengthen his battlefield position before negotiations. “Any gains Russia makes during this period should be considered off the table,” Tillis said.

Rutte added that Europe is prepared to finance Ukraine’s military push to enter peace talks from a position of strength. He confirmed that under a new understanding with Trump, the U.S. would deliver large-scale military aid—ranging from air defense systems and missiles to ammunition—funded by European allies.

When asked whether long-range missiles were included, Rutte said, “It’s a mix of defensive and offensive capabilities. Specific details are being handled by the Pentagon, NATO’s European command, and Ukrainian officials.”