A White House trade advisor has strongly criticized India, accusing the nation of acting as a financial conduit for Russia by purchasing and refining discounted Russian oil. This action, the advisor claims, allows Russia to fund its war efforts in Ukraine. Furthermore, the advisor expressed concern over India’s increasing cooperation with China, viewing it as a strategic issue. Despite the criticism, the advisor acknowledged the importance of India’s leadership on the global stage. This stance contrasts with the views of others, including a former US Ambassador to the United Nations, who has emphasized the importance of a strong US-India partnership to counter China’s influence. Simultaneously, a prominent economist has condemned recent US tariffs imposed on India, deeming them detrimental to US foreign policy interests. These tariffs were implemented, in part, due to India’s continued import of Russian oil, a move that has drawn criticism from Russian officials as well. India’s External Affairs Minister has responded to the US criticism, highlighting that other nations are larger purchasers of Russian oil and natural gas. The Minister also pointed out that the US had previously encouraged India to stabilize global energy markets by purchasing Russian oil.
