Navarro Warns India on China, Russia Ties
White House Trade Adviser Peter Navarro has warned India against what he described as “getting in bed with authoritarians,” referring to its deepening ties with China and Russia. Speaking in an interview, Navarro said India should act like the world’s largest democracy and distance itself from regimes that undermine global stability.
Ukraine Conflict Called “Modi’s War”
Navarro went further to controversially label the Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war,” claiming that India’s continued imports of discounted Russian crude oil were indirectly funding Moscow’s military campaign. He added that the road to ending the conflict passes through New Delhi, pressing India to reconsider its position on energy trade with Russia.
Tariff Link to Oil Imports
Amid ongoing tariff disputes, Navarro highlighted that the U.S. has raised duties on Indian goods to 50%. He stated that these tariffs could be reduced by 25% if India halts its Russian oil purchases. By linking trade penalties to India’s foreign policy decisions, Navarro signaled Washington’s intent to leverage tariffs as a tool of geopolitical pressure.
