We now witness politically driven protectionism: Russia sends strong message to US over tariff imposition

In a statement, Russia’s Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said: "Sanctions and restrictions have unfortunately become a defining feature of the current historical period, impacting countries across the globe. Unable to accept the erosion of its dominance in an emerging multipolar international order, Washington continues to pursue a neocolonial agenda, employing politically motivated economic pressure against those who choose an independent course on the international stage."

"This approach runs counter to the very principles of free trade once championed by Western nations," she said.

The Russian official further said: "Instead, we now witness politically driven protectionism and the arbitrary imposition of tariff barriers. One of the key victims of this policy is our strategic partner in Latin America and the Caribbean – Brazil."

She said the US actions represent a direct infringement on the sovereignty of other nations and an attempt to interfere in their internal affairs.

She further said: "Nonetheless, we firmly believe that no tariff wars or sanctions can halt the natural course of history. We are supported by a vast number of partners, like-minded states, and allies, particularly among the countries of the Global South and, above all, within BRICS, who share this perspective. We stand ready to deepen cooperation with them to resist unlawful unilateral sanctions and to help shape a genuinely multipolar, just, and equitable international order."

India's strong response

In a strong response to the Trump administration, India on Monday said the United States' tariff threats to the South Asian country over its Russian oil import are "unjustified and unreasonable".

Hitting back at the White House, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) cleared it will take all necessary steps to safeguard its "national interests and economic security".

India accused the US and European Union jointly for its alleged double standards citing how both Washington and EU are engaged in trade and imports from Moscow.