Navarro Recounts Online Backlash After India-Russia Oil Remarks

Peter Navarro, a former senior counselor for trade and manufacturing in the U.S., recounted facing substantial online criticism from India following the publication of an opinion piece concerning India's oil trade with Russia. Navarro stated that his op-ed, written approximately six to eight months prior to the report, factually noted India's increased involvement in Russian oil trade after the invasion of Ukraine and its subsequent sale of refined products, which he suggested supported the war effort.

Navarro described the reaction as being "firebombed by the Indian continent on the internet." He also indicated that the issue regarding trade tariffs and Russia-linked energy purchases was being resolved. Navarro emphasized that such matters are ultimately settled between national leaders, citing the strong working relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

His comments emerged amidst ongoing concerns in India regarding potential U.S. trade actions against nations that continue to purchase Russian energy. Earlier, the U.S. Senate passed legislation that could allow the President to impose tariffs up to 100% on goods from countries that are major purchasers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. India and China are noted as significant buyers of Russian crude oil.