'Continuing economic ties with Russia could lead to severe consequences': NATO issues warning to three nations including India

NEW DELHI: NATO has issued a stern warning to three countries- India, China, and Brazil- stating that they may face sanctions if they continue trading with Russia. The warning was issued by NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, who addressed the media following discussions with U.S. senators. NATO urged the leaders of these three nations to advise Russian President Vladimir Putin to seriously consider peace talks.

This warning comes in the wake of a threat from U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently stated that the U.S. would impose a 100% tariff on Russian goods and provide new weapons to Ukraine if Russia and Ukraine fail to reach a peace agreement within 50 days.

Rutte added that it would be in the best interest of India, China, and Brazil to halt trade with Russia, warning that continuing business with Moscow could have serious negative consequences. "These countries should call President Putin and urge him to take peace talks seriously," he said, stressing that failure to act could backfire on them.

Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis welcomed Trump’s announcement but expressed concern over the 50-day window, warning that it could give Putin a chance to win more ground militarily or commit further atrocities in a bid to gain leverage.

Rutte also echoed this worry, saying:
“Whatever Russia does during this period should not be seen as a bargaining chip. Europe will provide the financial support needed to secure the best possible position for Ukraine in any peace talks.”