US Trade Advisor Criticizes India's Russian Oil Purchases Amid Tariff Increase

Navarro's Controversial Remarks on India

Peter Navarro, a trade advisor at the White House, labeled the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war” during a recent interview with a news outlet, reiterating claims that India is financially supporting Russia's military efforts.

This statement coincided with the implementation of a 50% tariff on goods imported from India to the United States, a decision announced by the previous Trump administration.

On August 6, it was declared that tariffs on Indian imports would double to 50% due to India's purchases of Russian oil amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. A prior 25% reciprocal tariff had already been enacted.

Trump has consistently accused India of contributing to Russia's military actions through its imports.

In his interview, Navarro asserted that India's discounted purchases of Russian oil are detrimental to the US, which must then allocate resources to support Ukraine's defense.

He referred to the situation as “Modi’s war,” emphasizing that peace efforts must involve New Delhi.

Navarro claimed that the American populace is suffering due to India's actions, stating, “Consumers, businesses, workers lose because India’s high tariffs cost us jobs and factories and income and higher wages.”

He further criticized India's trade policies, expressing concern over what he perceives as arrogance from Indian officials regarding their tariff stance.

“India, you’re the biggest democracy in the world, Okay? Act like one,” he remarked.

In response, New Delhi expressed disappointment over the US imposing additional tariffs, labeling the actions as “extremely unfortunate” and asserting that they are unfair and unjustified.

The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that India would take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro sought to raise pressure on India to halt purchases of Russian energy after the US imposed crippling new tariffs on New Delhi, casting the conflict in Ukraine as “Modi’s war.” He speaks with @jmathieureports https://t.co/q2zqU9y9Lc pic.twitter.com/ohxbenkO87

— Bloomberg TV (@BloombergTV) August 27, 2025

Navarro also called on India to align itself with democratic nations, warning against forming ties with authoritarian regimes.

He highlighted China's aggressive actions in Aksai Chin, an area claimed by India, and cautioned that these nations are not allies.

Border tensions between India and China have escalated since a violent clash in June 2020, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Since then, both countries have engaged in multiple rounds of military and diplomatic discussions to address the ongoing border standoff.

On August 18, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar indicated that discussions with China would also encompass global issues, advocating for a balanced and multipolar world order.