Trump threatens Putin with 100% tariffs. Is Putin scared?

Putin showed no fear, but the game pressure escalated

The Putin regime demonstrated strategic determination by downplaying rhetoric, promoting financial autonomy and taking advantage of the internal friction of American politics; however, the 100% tariff plus NATO’s military aid to Ukraine (such as the “Patriot” missile) actually squeezed Russia in terms of energy income and battlefield situation. Behind Russia’s calm response is a game strategy after weighing economic risks and geopolitical bargaining chips, rather than simply showing weakness.

1. Putin’s public attitude: no panic

Downplaying the threat

The Kremlin did not immediately issue an official statement, but Russian sources (including Putin’s former advisers) described Trump’s tariff threat as “bluffing” and even said that Trump’s move showed that he “had given up efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine.”

Ironic response ‌

For Trump’s early recording of “bombing Moscow” threat (exposed in July 2025), Russian presidential press secretary Peskov refuted it as “fake news” and pointed out that the call record does not exist; Putin himself once ridiculed such threats as “meaningless and will only inspire Russians.”

2. Russia’s actual response: strategic defense preparations

Accelerate “de-dollarization” ‌

Russia plans to strengthen local currency settlement with BRICS countries (such as 90% of China-Russia RMB settlements) and avoid dependence on the US dollar system through financing from the New Development Bank (NDB).

Energy market adjustment ‌

If the secondary tariff is implemented, Russia may face India and other countries cutting oil imports (accounting for 40% of Russia’s exports), but the short-term rise in oil prices may increase its income; in the long run, it needs to prevent market share from being replaced by Saudi Arabia and others.

Delaying tactics ‌

The Russian side believes that Trump’s tariffs need congressional support, and the Democratic Party may obstruct related bills (such as the 500% secondary tariff proposal), so it chooses to wait and see changes in US domestic affairs.

3. Indirect signs: market and economic feedback

The stock market rose abnormally ‌
The Russian stock market experienced a short-term surge because the tariff rate was “only” 100% (lower than the rumored 500%), reflecting that the market believed that the threat level was lower than expected.

Economic concerns exist ‌

A former Ukrainian adviser pointed out that the Russian economic situation was already severe (high inflation rate), and tariffs may increase fiscal pressure, but the Russian authorities will “pretend to be indifferent.”