US-India Tensions Rise Over Russian Oil Trade Comments
A diplomatic spat has erupted after White House advisor Peter Navarro accused India of profiteering from Russian oil purchases, claiming the revenue fuels Russia's war in Ukraine. His post on X was fact-checked by the platform's community notes, which stated India's trade is for energy security and does not violate sanctions. Navarro reacted angrily, calling the note "crap." India's Ministry of External Affairs rejected his remarks as "inaccurate and misleading," despite recent positive exchanges between President Trump and PM Modi.
Unpacked:
Peter Navarro accused India of profiteering because India continues to buy significant amounts of Russian oil, which he claims helps fund Russia’s war in Ukraine. This criticism aligns with recent U.S. policy moves targeting countries that buy Russian oil, aiming to increase economic pressure on Russia.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has rejected these accusations as inaccurate and misleading, emphasizing that its oil trade is for energy security and does not violate international sanctions. India maintains its actions are legal and justified amid global energy needs.
President Trump issued an executive order imposing an additional 25% tariff on most Indian imports, citing India’s purchases of Russian oil as the reason. This tariff stacks on previous duties and is intended as economic pressure to curtail such trade.
Some analysts suggest the U.S. focus on India stems more from ongoing trade tensions and slow progress in bilateral talks rather than solely from Russia-related issues. China, though a larger buyer of Russian oil, has not faced similar tariffs, highlighting possible political motivations.