Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has voiced strong support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose tariffs on countries continuing to import Russian oil, calling the move “brave, principled, and logical.” Johnson’s remarks, shared via a post on X (formerly Twitter), challenge the UK and European nations to take similar action against Russia’s energy trade.
“Donald Trump has done the brave, principled, and logical thing—finally punishing the countries that have been funding Putin’s vicious war machine by buying Russian oil and gas,” Johnson wrote.
He further questioned the hesitation of Britain and other European governments in matching Washington’s stance: When will Britain and the rest of Europe have the guts to do the same?”
Donald Trump has done the brave, principled and logical thing – finally punishing the countries that have been funding Putin’s vicious war machine by buying Russian oil and gas. When will Britain and the rest of Europe have the guts to do the same? https://t.co/ET2IZlN8Pn
— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) August 6, 2025
Trump’s Tariffs on India and Russia Oil Trade
Johnson’s comments come days after President Trump signed an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian crude oil. This action increased international trade tensions and increased duties on Indian imports to a total of 50%.
Several European countries continue to import Russian energy either through pipeline supplies or via refined products sourced through third parties, despite sanctions aimed at isolating Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine. Johnson’s statement adds fresh pressure on these governments to tighten restrictions.
Also Read: Trump’s Executive Order Hits India With 50% Tariff, Cites Russian Oil Imports
Johnson’s Previous Criticism of Putin
This is not the first time Boris Johnson has taken a hard line on Russian President Vladimir Putin. In March 2025, following Putin’s rejection of a ceasefire proposal backed by Trump, Johnson publicly condemned the Russian leader.
“What a surprise—Putin rejects an unconditional ceasefire. He wants to keep bombing and killing innocent Ukrainians. He wants Ukraine disarmed. He wants Ukraine neutralized. He wants to make Ukraine a vassal state of Russia. He isn’t negotiating. He’s laughing at us,” Johnson posted on X.
European Energy Politics in the Spotlight
Johnson’s latest remarks underscore ongoing divisions within Europe about how aggressively to sanction Russia’s energy sector. Economic ties and energy reliance present difficulties for certain nations, making consistent action more difficult.
With Trump’s tariff move gaining international attention, calls for a united Western front against Russia’s energy trade are intensifying, and Boris Johnson’s public support signals an alignment with the more hawkish U.S. stance.
