Peter Navarro Slams India’s Oil Dealings with Russia, Accuses India of ‘Strategic Freeloading’

Peter Navarro has criticized India’s ongoing purchase of crude oil from Russia, viewing it as a means of indirectly funding the war in Ukraine. He asserts that India is utilizing US dollars to acquire discounted Russian crude, with the resulting revenue directly benefiting Russia’s war efforts. Navarro emphasizes the shift in India’s oil imports, which now heavily rely on Russian oil. He claims that Indian refiners are involved in a scheme to profit from the discounted Russian oil by refining and exporting it, potentially evading international sanctions. He also condemns India’s continued purchase of Russian weapons, while at the same time seeking transfer of US military technology. Navarro points out the increasing trade deficit between the US and India, accusing India of using US currency to purchase Russian oil. Navarro also places blame on the previous Biden administration for allegedly ignoring the situation, suggesting that the current trade practices are detrimental to US interests. He calls for the US to take action against these trade practices.