Trump Advisor Navarro Escalates Attacks on India Over Trade and Russian Oil

Peter Navarro, a trade advisor during Donald Trump’s presidency, has escalated his criticism of India, focusing on its trade policies and its continued purchase of Russian oil. While leaders from both nations, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the US, stress the significance of their relationship, Navarro has voiced concerns. During an interview with CNBC, Navarro discussed the stalled trade agreement, highlighting India’s high tariffs and trade barriers. He noted that India is currently participating in discussions. Furthermore, Navarro accused Indian refiners of capitalizing on discounted Russian oil following the invasion of Ukraine, implying that this benefits Russia’s military efforts. He also commented on PM Modi’s interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. Trump expressed optimism about the trade negotiations between India and the US, stating he would soon speak to Prime Minister Modi. He anticipates a favorable outcome for both countries. In response to Trump’s remarks, PM Modi reaffirmed the close ties between India and the US, anticipating that trade negotiations will further strengthen the partnership.