The relationship between India and America appears to be experiencing difficulties. Vikas Swarup, a former spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, expressed his worries about the Donald Trump administration’s pressure on India. This statement was made in response to White House trade advisor Peter Navarro’s criticism of India’s trade practices and its oil imports from Russia. Swarup pointed out that the Trump administration is putting pressure on the Indian government, referring to comments made by Peter Navarro. Navarro has been increasingly critical of India, accusing it of being the “maharaja of tariffs” and criticizing its oil purchases from Russia. Swarup responded strongly, emphasizing India’s policy of strategic autonomy and its independence from external influence. He added that although a trade deal was expected, it had not yet occurred. Swarup expressed his hope for progress while stating that the comments from the Trump administration, particularly those of Peter Navarro, are not conducive to a positive outcome. Navarro has taken a strident position while justifying US President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 50 percent tariff on imports from India, and accused India of profiting from Russian oil.
