Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has strongly refuted claims made by Peter Navarro, a former advisor to Donald Trump, regarding India's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Navarro's comments, which included labeling the conflict "Modi's war," have sparked considerable debate and drawn criticism from Indian political figures.

Navarro's allegations center on India's continued purchase of Russian oil, which he claims is indirectly fueling Moscow's military aggression. He argues that India's actions burden American taxpayers and that the country could see a 25% reduction in US tariffs if it ceases buying discounted crude from Russia. Furthermore, Navarro has criticized India's high tariffs, asserting that they cost the US jobs, factories, income, and higher wages. He went so far as to call India the "Maharaja of tariffs".

Priyanka Chaturvedi responded to Navarro's remarks by stating that the Russia-Ukraine conflict is "not India's war". She also pointed out that India is not the only country purchasing oil from Russia, implying that singling out India is unfair. While she didn't name China, she alluded to the fact that the US officials have often been asked why there were no similar penalties for the country, despite it being the largest oil buyer. Chaturvedi expressed frustration over Navarro's repeated attacks on India, especially his backing of Donald Trump's 50% tariffs on Indian imports. She highlighted the multiple platforms Navarro has used to convey his criticism, including an opinion piece in the Financial Times, an interview, and a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter).

Navarro alleges that India has significantly increased its oil trade with Russia since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He also accuses India of "getting in bed with authoritarians" like China and Russia, while slamming India's claims of sovereignty over oil imports.

Chaturvedi's response underscores India's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its independent foreign policy decisions. India has consistently maintained a neutral position, emphasizing the need for dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the crisis. The country has also defended its right to purchase oil from Russia, citing its energy security needs.

The exchange between Chaturvedi and Navarro highlights the ongoing tensions between the US and India over trade and foreign policy issues. With the US imposing a 50% tariff on Indian goods, the relationship between the two countries appears to be facing a crisis. While communication channels remain open, both sides seem to be taking hardline positions. India feels that the relationship, which has been based on trust, is deteriorating sharply.