Washington / New Delhi, August 28, 2025 – Former White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has sparked controversy after accusing Prime Minister Narendra Modi of fuelling Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing discounted Russian oil. Speaking to Bloomberg, Navarro claimed India was “playing a double game” on trade and energy, warning that its growing ties with Moscow and Beijing risk undermining global stability.
“When India buys Russian oil at a discount and then sells refined products at a premium, it bankrolls Russia’s war machine. American taxpayers end up funding what I call ‘Modi’s war’,” Navarro said.
Sharp Criticism of India’s Trade and Energy Policies
Navarro alleged that India’s 1.5 million barrels per day of Russian oil imports were directly financing drones and bombs used against Ukraine. He also accused New Delhi of having some of the “highest tariffs in the world,” calling India’s stance “arrogant.”
“India, you’re the biggest democracy. Act like one. Stop getting into bed with authoritarians,” he said, pointing to China’s incursions in Indian territory.
Tariff War Escalates
His remarks come just days after the US imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods, affecting nearly two-thirds of India’s exports to America. Exporters in sectors like apparel have already warned of closures and job losses. Navarro defended the tariffs, saying they were necessary to counter India’s “unfair trade practices” and oil purchases from Russia.
However, other US voices disagree. Former ambassador Nikki Haley urged rebuilding ties with India, while economist Jeffrey Sachs called the tariffs “self-destructive,” warning they could push BRICS nations closer together.
India Pushes Back
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar dismissed Navarro’s claims as “perplexing,” noting that China and the European Union remain Russia’s largest energy buyers. He added that India has consistently acted to stabilise global energy markets, and described the new tariffs as “extremely unfortunate.”
“We will take all necessary steps to protect national interests,” Jaishankar said.
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