Trump’s tariff tactics are a geopolitical bully move that may backfire

By Vidya Bhushan Rawat*

U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent move to impose high tariffs on Indian goods is yet another example of his aggressive, unilateralist economic policy—an attempt to pressure and punish rather than to negotiate. This is not an isolated action. Trump has shown similar hostility toward other countries aligned with the BRICS bloc—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—reflecting his disdain for multipolar global cooperation and his desire to maintain American economic supremacy at all costs.

Trump’s tariffs are not just about trade; they are geopolitical tools aimed at undermining emerging alliances that challenge U.S. hegemony. As the European Union faces internal fractures and indecisive leadership from key nations such as Britain, France, and Germany, Trump has used this moment to escalate his “America First” strategy without serious resistance from traditional allies. Ironically, this bullying approach may accelerate the very trend Washington fears most: the strengthening of alternative global groupings like BRICS and the rise of non-dollar trade settlements.

At the heart of a functioning democratic international order is mutual respect for sovereignty and the right of governments to make decisions in the best interest of their citizens. Seeking greatness for one's country should not come at the cost of demonizing others. The so-called “American century” is barely a hundred years old and is now being questioned—not by military might, but by the erosion of moral leadership and diplomatic integrity.

Trump’s diplomacy by coercion has also failed in other parts of the world. Despite numerous sanctions and threats, Russia has continued its operations in Ukraine, undeterred. The war has been brutal and divisive, yet American policy under Trump—and even beyond—has done little to bring peace. The interests were never humanitarian. Behind the curtain were strategic ambitions, such as control over land rich in rare earth minerals.

Meanwhile, in the Middle East, America’s track record under Trump has been equally troubling. Assassinations of top Iranian officials, attacks during negotiations, and vetoes against UN resolutions condemning violence in Gaza have all damaged the credibility of U.S. diplomacy. The continued backing of Israel, even amid mounting allegations of war crimes in Palestine, reveals a disturbing double standard in international conduct.

Today, the world stands on the brink of another potentially devastating conflict—this time involving Iran. With tensions rising, it is imperative for all nations, especially regional powers like India, to adopt a clear, principled foreign policy that prioritizes sovereignty, peace, and national interest.

India must be cautious. It cannot afford to be dragged into the orbit of U.S. economic and military designs, particularly when it comes at the cost of its own sovereignty. The Indian government has so far avoided open confrontation with Trump’s administration. But rising public sentiment suggests a growing impatience with submission to foreign pressure. India must assert its right to chart an independent path—one guided by national security, economic priorities, and regional stability.

Trump’s tariff war and foreign policy posturing may win him applause at home, but globally, they are sowing divisions and accelerating a shift toward a more multipolar, less dollar-dependent world. If the United States continues down this path, it may find itself more isolated than ever before.

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*Human rights defender

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