India Responds Strongly to White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro’s Controversial Remarks

New Delhi: Context on U.S.-India Relations

India firmly rejected comments by White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro, calling them “inaccurate and misleading.” The remarks were aimed at India’s ongoing purchase of Russian crude oil, which Navarro labeled as “oil money laundromat for the Kremlin.” He criticized India for buying Russian arms while encouraging U.S. defense companies to invest in India.

Navarro’s comments suggest that if India seeks a strong partnership with the U.S., it must act accordingly. This recent flare-up highlights the challenges in U.S.-India relations, particularly since tensions have escalated after tariffs on Indian goods were increased under the Trump administration.

In August, a tariff of 25 percent on Russian crude oil imports began, impacting India significantly. India responded by calling this move “unfair and unjustified,” questioning why it was targeted when countries like China—the largest importer of Russian crude—faced no similar actions.

India’s shift to Russian oil comes in light of its national interest and market dynamics. After Western sanctions on Russia began following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, India seized the opportunity to purchase discounted Russian oil. As a result, Russia’s share of Indian oil imports skyrocketed from 1.7 percent in 2019-20 to an estimated 35.1 percent by 2024-25. It now stands as India’s leading oil supplier.

According to recent surveys, public opinion in India largely supports the government’s decision, viewing it as a pragmatic economic choice. Experts believe this pivot in energy procurement reflects India’s broader strategy to ensure energy security amid fluctuating global markets.

For further reading, you can explore the geopolitical implications of energy dependencies and how they shape international relations on Reuters.

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INDIA, PETER NAVARRO, INDIA AND US, INDIA REJECTS WHITE HOUSE TRADE ADVISOR PETER NAVARRO'S COMMENTS