United States / India
Former Trump trade adviser Peter Navarro sparked controversy after accusing India of buying Russian oil “purely to profiteer,” alleging that the revenues indirectly fuel Moscow’s war in Ukraine. His post, however, was swiftly flagged by X’s Community Notes feature as misleading. The fact-check prompted Navarro to lash out at Elon Musk, criticising the platform’s verification system and calling the note “that crap note below.”
X pushes back with fact-checks
The community-driven notes on X clarified that India’s crude imports from Russia were primarily motivated by energy security and did not violate international sanctions. The notes further pointed out that the United States itself continues to import Russian commodities, such as uranium, underscoring the double standards in Navarro’s argument.
The fact-check drew attention to the broader context of global trade, with users suggesting that Washington should address its own dependencies before targeting India.
Navarro’s counterattack
Unmoved by the correction, Navarro doubled down, accusing Musk of enabling “propaganda” on his platform. He reiterated that India’s oil trade with Russia was solely driven by profit, posting remarks like “Stop killing Ukrainians. Stop taking American jobs.”
His rhetoric extended beyond oil, at times referring to India’s role as a “laundromat for the Kremlin” and making culturally insensitive remarks that drew criticism from Indian and international observers.
India’s rejection of allegations
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed Navarro’s claims as “misleading and inaccurate.” Officials stressed that the country’s purchases were in line with its energy needs and consistent with international norms.
New Delhi has repeatedly highlighted that it will continue to make independent decisions on energy imports, especially amid rising global prices and supply chain disruptions caused by the war.
Strains in India–U.S. relations
Navarro’s repeated outbursts come against the backdrop of a tense trade climate between Washington and New Delhi. The Trump administration has imposed tariffs of up to 50%, in part linked to India’s continued engagement with Russian oil markets.
While India sees Russian oil as a means to secure affordable supplies, U.S. officials argue it undermines collective efforts to weaken Moscow’s economy. Analysts warn that Navarro’s sharp remarks risk further straining diplomatic ties at a time when cooperation between the two democracies is crucial.