Russian President Vladimir Putin has strongly criticized the United States' approach to dealing with India and China, stating that Washington's use of tariffs and sanctions is reminiscent of outdated, colonial-era tactics. Speaking to the media after the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China, Putin warned the U.S. against trying to "strong-arm" India and China with economic pressure, asserting, "You can't talk to India or China in that way".

Putin's criticism centers on what he sees as a misguided attempt by the U.S. to pressure two of Asia's most significant economies through punitive trade measures. He characterized India and China as vital "partners" and suggested that the U.S. tariff regime is a deliberate strategy to "undermine the leadership of these nations" rather than engage in genuine diplomatic dialogue.

The Russian leader emphasized the demographic and economic realities that make such pressure tactics ineffective and potentially counterproductive. He pointed to India's population of 1.5 billion people and highlighted that both nations possess robust domestic political systems and legal frameworks that cannot simply be bypassed through external economic threats. Putin questioned how American policymakers expect the leadership of such substantial countries to respond when confronted with ultimatums and punishment-based diplomacy.

Putin also highlighted the historical context of colonialism, noting that both India and China endured prolonged periods of foreign domination that profoundly shaped their national consciousness and political reflexes. He argued that leaders in these nations understand that displaying weakness in the face of external pressure would likely end their political careers, making compromise under duress virtually impossible. This historical legacy, he said, fundamentally influences how these governments respond to American economic threats.

Putin's most pointed criticism targeted what he characterized as Washington's outdated mindset. He stated that the "colonial era is now over" and that the U.S. needs to realize it cannot use such tones when speaking with partners.

These remarks come against the backdrop of intensifying trade and geopolitical tensions. The U.S. has imposed a 50% tariff on India for purchasing Russian oil and initially placed a 145% tariff on Chinese goods, later reduced to 30%. In response, China has lowered its tariffs on U.S. goods from 125% to 10%.

Despite his criticism, Putin expressed hope that things would eventually be sorted out and normal dialogue would resume. He also reiterated his call for a multipolar global order, stressing that no single power should dominate international politics or security. He positioned blocs like BRICS and the SCO as platforms for equitable international relations.

On the sidelines of the SCO summit, leaders from India, China, and Russia displayed a rare show of unity and friendship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Russia a "special and privileged partner," and Chinese President Xi Jinping declared that the world's two most populous countries need to be friends.