Amidst growing frustration from the Trump administration regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, a US expert is urging Washington to stop singling out India. Ashley J. Tellis, a US Strategic Affairs Expert, stated that many parties share responsibility for complicating President Trump's peace initiative in Ukraine.
This statement comes in response to accusations, including those from Trump's Trade Advisor Peter Navarro, who labeled the Russia-Ukraine conflict "Modi's war". Navarro claimed that India's continued purchase of Russian energy was funding Moscow's military aggression. In response to India's continued trade with Russia, the U.S. has doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%.
Tellis argues that focusing solely on India is misguided. He emphasized that other actors are also contributing to the difficulties in achieving a peaceful resolution in Ukraine. He cautioned against isolating India as the primary cause of Trump's "misfortunes".
The expert's comments highlight the complexities of the situation, where multiple global powers have differing interests and relationships. Germany has also called upon India to use its close ties with Russia to encourage peace talks. While India has resisted directly denouncing Moscow, it has called for a cessation of hostilities. Moreover, India has defended its purchase of Russian oil as necessary to protect its economy from global shocks.
Other experts have also weighed in on the situation. Economist Richard Wolff has criticized the U.S. approach towards India, arguing that punitive tariffs and the "scapegoating of allies risk dangerous self-isolation". Wolff suggests that trade benefits all parties involved and doesn't directly fund conflicts.
David Ignatius, a foreign affairs commentator, described Prime Minister Narendra Modi joining Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin as a serious blow to Washington's long-term strategy. Ignatius stated that India's shift towards Russia and China is undoing decades of U.S. diplomacy.
President Trump has voiced his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin for the lack of progress in reaching a peace deal in Ukraine. Despite setting a deadline for progress, Trump has not clarified the consequences Russia might face. Trump has also dismissed concerns about a growing Russia-China alignment.
The situation remains fluid, with Ukraine seeking meetings with President Trump and European leaders to discuss the stalled peace efforts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed frustration with Russia's lack of engagement.
