Russia has issued a strong condemnation of the United States’ ongoing use of sanctions and tariff pressures, labeling them a form of “neocolonial economic warfare“ designed to stifle the sovereignty of emerging powers. The statement, delivered by Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, highlights Russia’s position that global power is shifting toward a multipolar world order that no amount of external economic pressure can halt.

U.S. Sanctions Under Fire as Russia Pushes Back Against Unilateral Pressure

Zakharova’s remarks came after the U.S. proposed a significant increase in tariffs on Indian crude oil imports from Russia. Washington accuses New Delhi of reselling Russian oil for profit while ignoring the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In response, Zakharova stated,

“Sanctions and tariff wars have become defining tools of U.S. foreign policy. These politically driven restrictions aim to coerce nations that pursue sovereign, independent paths on the international stage.”

She accused Washington of resorting to economic pressure tactics due to its waning influence in a rapidly evolving global geopolitical landscape.

India Defends Its Energy Strategy Amid Rising U.S. Pressure

India’s Ministry of External Affairs strongly rejected the U.S. criticism, defending its oil imports from Russia as vital for national energy security. Indian officials reiterated their stance that such imports are lawful and crucial for maintaining stable fuel prices for Indian citizens.

“India has the sovereign right to frame its own energy policy,” said an MEA spokesperson. “Our trade decisions are driven by the needs of our economy and people, not foreign political agendas.”

India’s position reflects the broader sentiment among Global South nations pushing back against what they view as selective and politically charged economic policies imposed by the West.

Russia Promotes BRICS Unity and Calls for a Multipolar Global Trade System

Russia’s Foreign Ministry warned that the U.S.’s aggressive tariff strategies, including those targeting Brazil and other BRICS nations, are undermining global trade norms, increasing supply chain disruptions, and threatening the stability of the international economy.

Zakharova asserted:

“These actions deepen economic fragmentation and violate the principles of free trade once championed by the West. The future lies in a multipolar, cooperative global order.”

She emphasized that Russia remains committed to strengthening alliances with countries across Asia, Latin America, and Africa, aiming to build a fairer, multipolar global trade ecosystem free from coercive economic practices.

Russia’s Vision for a Just Global Future

In her closing statement, Zakharova said:

“Russia stands ready to deepen international cooperation with like-minded partners. Together, we will resist unlawful unilateral sanctions and shape a just, inclusive, and truly multipolar global system.”

This statement aligns with Russia’s broader diplomatic strategy of enhancing BRICS cooperation, diversifying global trade partnerships, and challenging Western-led global institutions.