The relationship between the United States and India is facing challenges, exemplified by the imposition of tariffs. A White House advisor, Peter Navarro, has linked the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to India’s actions. He referred to the war as “Modi’s war”, arguing that India’s persistent purchase of Russian oil is supporting Moscow’s aggression.
Navarro indicated that if India stopped buying Russian oil, it could see a reduction in the tariffs imposed by the US. The current tariffs, totaling 50%, were put in place following India’s oil purchases from Russia.
He suggested that the road to peace “somewhat passes through New Delhi.” He also explained that reducing the tariffs is easily achievable: India should stop buying Russian oil. Navarro expressed his disappointment with India’s position on tariffs, accusing them of arrogance.
Navarro stated that India is enabling Moscow’s war efforts, suggesting that the discount on Russian oil fuels the Russian military. He highlighted that this negatively affects the American economy, leading to losses in various sectors. He also noted that the money earned by India from selling goods to the US is used to purchase Russian oil, which then allows Russia to produce more weapons, indirectly requiring more US military aid for Ukraine, something he considered a form of “madness.”