Trump and Modi Can Resolve Russian Oil Tariff Row- Peter Navarro

US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi can resolve the ongoing differences over India’s purchase of Russian crude oil through direct discussions, White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has said. Navarro described the relationship between the two leaders as strong and said there was no need for outside intervention. He argued that India significantly increased its purchases of Russian oil after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and maintained that India’s trade in Russian petroleum products has indirectly benefited Moscow. Navarro also acknowledged facing strong criticism in India over his earlier remarks and said such reactions would not help resolve the dispute.

The issue has gained importance amid a US sanctions bill that could authorise tariffs of up to 100% on imports from major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India. The US Senate has already cleared the legislation, which is now part of the broader debate over Washington’s approach to countries purchasing Russian energy. India has maintained that its crude purchases are guided by its energy-security requirements and that it sources oil from multiple countries. Navarro, however, expressed confidence that Trump and Modi would work together to find a solution to the tariff dispute.