Donald Trump has announced the introduction of 25% tariffs on all countries continuing economic relations with Iran. This move is a clear economic signal, particularly directed at China, the main importer of Iranian oil.
While earlier there were expectations of possible US military action against Iran, current US policy is focused on strengthening economic pressure. The additional tariffs aim to limit Iran’s oil revenues and weaken its financial position.
China benefits the most from buying Iranian oil through "teapots" – small, unofficial refineries. However, under US sanctions, China will likely reduce its oil purchases, which will also affect other countries dependent on Chinese money and cheap resources.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry has already criticized the US decision, but many analysts believe that tougher tariffs and sanctions could indeed influence the situation in Iran. The country is already experiencing a financial crisis: inflation exceeds 40%, and protest sentiment is growing despite much of the economy being controlled by fundamentalist structures.
Potential weakening of Iran’s security apparatus due to US pressure could be a critical factor for the protest movement. Nonetheless, the Iranian regime currently shows no signs of retreat, relying on internal and external resources.
Ukrainian analysts note that strengthening sanctions could topple the Iranian regime, but only if financial flows are really restricted. Protesters in the country hope for such an outcome, but changes may take weeks or months.
The article also calls on Ukrainians to remain economically prudent amid global financial challenges and to focus on financial literacy and institutional resilience.
