Fact Check: The us didn’t tariff Russia because we don’t trade with them anyway.

The Claim: "The U.S. didn’t tariff Russia because we don’t trade with them anyway."

Introduction

The assertion that the United States refrained from imposing tariffs on Russia due to minimal trade relations has surfaced in discussions surrounding U.S.-Russia economic interactions, particularly in the context of sanctions related to Russia's actions in Ukraine. This claim invites scrutiny, especially given the evolving nature of U.S. trade policy and sanctions against Russia.

What We Know

1. Current Trade Relations: According to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), U.S.-Russia trade relations have been significantly impacted by sanctions imposed in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In 2023, these sanctions have been a primary factor governing trade dynamics between the two nations 12.

2. Tariffs on Russian Goods: In February 2023, the Biden administration announced increased tariffs on Russian aluminum and other products, raising tariffs on certain imports from 35% to 70% under the authority of the Suspending Normal Trade Relations with Russia and Belarus Act 34. This indicates that, contrary to the claim, the U.S. has actively imposed tariffs on Russian goods.

3. Trade Volume: The U.S. goods trade deficit with Russia was reported at $2.5 billion in 2024, reflecting a significant decrease from previous years. This suggests that while trade volume may be lower than with other countries, it is not entirely negligible 5.

4. Historical Context: During the Trump administration, Russia was not subjected to new tariffs, which was attributed to the existing sanctions that limited trade. However, this decision has been criticized for lacking transparency and clarity regarding the motivations behind it 6910.

5. Impact of Sanctions: The U.S. has implemented over 200 sanctions against Russian individuals and entities, further complicating trade relations and limiting the scope of economic interaction 8.

Analysis

The claim that the U.S. did not impose tariffs on Russia due to a lack of trade is misleading. While it is true that trade volumes between the U.S. and Russia have decreased significantly, especially following the imposition of sanctions, the U.S. has actively raised tariffs on certain Russian imports in response to geopolitical events.

Source Reliability

• Government Reports: The USTR and Department of Commerce are credible sources, as they provide official data and statements regarding trade policies and sanctions. Their reports are typically well-researched and reflect the current state of trade relations.
• Media Articles: Sources like The New York Times and analysis from think tanks (e.g., the Belfer Center) provide context and critique but may carry biases based on their editorial slants. The New York Times, while reputable, has been critiqued for its framing of issues, which could influence the interpretation of trade policies 610.
• Think Tank Publications: Articles from organizations like the Center for European Policy Analysis (CEPA) provide analytical perspectives but may have specific agendas, particularly regarding U.S.-Russia relations, which could affect their objectivity 7.

Methodological Concerns

The claim's validity hinges on the interpretation of trade data and the context of sanctions. While it is accurate that trade volumes have diminished, the assertion fails to account for the active tariff measures that have been implemented in recent years. Furthermore, the historical context of tariff decisions during different administrations adds complexity to the narrative.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that the U.S. did not impose tariffs on Russia due to a lack of trade is false. Evidence shows that the U.S. has actively raised tariffs on certain Russian imports, particularly in response to geopolitical tensions, such as the invasion of Ukraine. While it is true that trade volumes between the two nations have decreased significantly, this does not negate the existence of tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Russian goods.

It is important to note that the context of U.S.-Russia trade relations is complex, influenced by a series of sanctions and historical decisions that have shaped the current economic landscape. The available evidence indicates that the U.S. has taken measures to impose tariffs, contradicting the claim's premise.

However, the analysis is limited by the dynamic nature of international trade and the evolving geopolitical context, which can affect trade relations and tariff policies. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the nuances of trade policy and international relations.

Sources

1. U.S. Trade Representative. "2023 Report on the Implementation and Enforcement of Russia's WTO Commitments." Link
2. U.S. Trade Representative. "USTR Publishes 2023 Report on the Implementation and Enforcement of Russia's WTO Commitments." Link
3. U.S. Department of Commerce. "Statement by Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on the Imposition of Higher Section 232 Tariffs on Russian Aluminum." Link
4. U.S. Trade Representative. "Statement by Ambassador Katherine Tai on the Imposition of Higher Tariffs on Additional Imports from Russia." Link
5. U.S. Trade Representative. "Russia." Link
6. The New York Times. "Why Did Trump Spare Russia From New Tariffs?" Link
7. Center for European Policy Analysis. "Russia — Zero Tariffs Bring Zero Relief." Link
8. Alston & Bird. "New U.S. Sanctions, Export Controls, and Tariffs Against Russia Mark One Year Since the Invasion of Ukraine." Link
9. Russia Matters. "Why Was Russia Spared From Trump's Tariffs?" Link
10. Belfer Center. "Why Was Russia Spared From Trump’s Tariffs?" Link