Trade Tensions: Modi's Bonding with Russia and China Troubles Trump's Top Adviser

The Trump administration's key trade adviser, Peter Navarro, has voiced concerns over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's diplomatic stances. Navarro described Modi's interactions with Russian and Chinese leaders as 'troublesome.' The unity seen at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit has sparked diplomatic tensions.

Navarro's remarks emphasize Washington's expectation for India to align its policies with the US, Europe, and Ukraine. This expectation comes amid heightened strains in India-US relations, fueled by President Trump's tariff policies and critical assessments of India's strategic decisions.

India, intent on defending its energy procurement motives, argues its Russian oil purchases are driven by national interests. However, the US, retaliating with steep tariffs, challenges the strategic wisdom of India's engagements with authoritarian regimes.