In a recent development, White House Trade Advisor Peter Navarro has reiterated his support for the 50% tariff on Indian imports, adding a controversial dimension by accusing the Brahmin community in India of ‘profiteering at the expense of the Indian people.’ Navarro, speaking on Fox News, described India as a ‘laundromat for the Kremlin,’ referencing trade imbalances and geopolitical alignments that he believes are harmful to the US. While he acknowledged Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, he questioned India’s relationships with Russia and China, suggesting that these partnerships undermine its democratic credentials. Navarro emphasized that India’s high tariffs negatively affect American workers and taxpayers, and also the people of Ukraine. These statements coincide with a meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Earlier, Navarro had accused India of profiting from Russian oil, exporting refined fuel to Europe, Africa, and Asia, shielded from sanctions under the pretence of neutrality. The US Appeals Court has ruled the tariffs are illegal.
