New Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump for publicly commenting on India’s policy decisions regarding Russian oil imports. Tharoor said that India, as a sovereign nation, should announce its own decisions and cautioned that foreign leaders should not dictate the country’s energy or trade policy.
Context of the criticism
The remarks come after Trump justified imposing a 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil. The U.S. President suggested that India’s decision on oil imports was in conflict with American strategic interests, effectively commenting on India’s foreign policy.
Tharoor labelled Trump’s statement as “interference” and a display of double standards. He highlighted that the U.S. itself imports significant quantities of uranium and palladium from Russia and has granted China a 90-day exemption from similar sanctions despite China purchasing more Russian oil than India.
Sovereignty and diplomacy
Tharoor stressed that India makes its decisions independently, balancing its energy needs, economic interests, and international commitments. He suggested that unilateral statements by foreign leaders risk undermining diplomatic decorum and the principle of national sovereignty.
Wider implications
The U.S. tariffs on Indian goods could affect trade in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Analysts note that such measures and public statements may strain India-U.S. relations, although both countries have a history of navigating complex economic and strategic ties.
Tharoor’s comments signal a firm stance by Indian lawmakers that India will pursue its energy and trade policies without external pressures, even from long-standing partners. Observers say this could influence both domestic public opinion and ongoing diplomatic engagements with the U.S.