Overview

• Finnish President Alexander Stubb told reporters the United States needs a more cooperative, dignified approach toward India or “we are going to lose this game.”
• His remarks come as the Trump administration’s 50% duties on Indian imports remain in place, with part of the levy publicly tied to New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil.
• The tariffs, effective since August 27, have begun to hit Indian sectors such as textiles and diamonds, according to industry reporting.
• Pointing to the SCO summit in Tianjin attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Stubb said the gathering underscores what is at stake for the West and warned against clinging to “the remnants of the old order.”
• Stubb’s counsel carries weight due to his unusual access to President Trump—cemented by a marathon golf round—and his recent role accompanying Volodymyr Zelensky to the White House.