Peter Navarro, the former White House senior counselor for trade and manufacturing under Donald Trump, has once again targeted India over its purchase of Russian oil. In a string of expletive-laden posts on X (formerly Twitter), Navarro accused New Delhi of fueling Russia’s war in Ukraine, calling the trade “blood money.”
On Monday, Navarro doubled down, posting:
“More blls**t from X. Fact: India didn’t buy Russian oil in large quantities before Russia invaded Ukraine. It’s blood money and people are dying. Stick that up your keister Mother Jones and shame on you.”*His remarks, flagged multiple times by X’s Community Notes for misinformation, have sparked a fierce debate about India’s energy strategy, America’s foreign policy, and the credibility of Navarro’s claims.”
Peter Navarro’s Rant Against India and X
Escalating Attacks
Navarro has posted at least half a dozen angry comments against India in recent days. His recurring theme: India allegedly profits from cheap Russian oil while indirectly funding Moscow’s war machine.
Clash With Community Notes
Each time, X users responded with fact-checks via Community Notes, highlighting that:
- India did purchase Russian oil before the Ukraine war, though at smaller volumes.
- New Delhi increased imports after Western sanctions disrupted global energy markets.
- India insists these purchases are legal and based on its national interest.
Navarro, however, accused X of being infiltrated by “Indian special interests,” and blasted Elon Musk for allowing what he called “propaganda” on the platform.
India’s Energy Position
Why India Buys Russian Oil
Energy analysts point out that India, the world’s third-largest crude oil importer, must keep costs down to protect its economy. Discounts offered by Moscow after Western buyers pulled out made Russian crude attractive.
Key points:
- India imports over 80% of its oil needs.
- Russian crude often comes at a 20–30% discount compared to Brent.
- Officials argue this supports domestic stability in fuel prices.
Official Response
While New Delhi hasn’t directly replied to Navarro’s rants, Indian diplomats have consistently stated:
- India acts in its national interest.
- Oil purchases are not political endorsements.
- The West must recognize India’s developmental needs.
Reactions to Navarro’s Comments
Social Media Pushback
Navarro’s remarks, filled with personal insults and profanity, drew sharp criticism online. Many accused him of hypocrisy, noting that U.S. allies in Europe also continued Russian energy imports well into 2022.
Community Notes debunked one of Navarro’s claims that “Brahmins are profiteering,” labeling it baseless and divisive. The crowd-sourced tool has become central to pushing back against misinformation on X.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Arvind Subramanian, former chief economic advisor to the Indian government, explained:
“India’s Russian oil purchases are not about geopolitics but economics. The West may dislike it, but global energy security is not black and white.”
U.S. foreign policy analysts, meanwhile, suggest Navarro is trying to position himself as a “hardliner” within Trump’s circle, particularly ahead of the Republican campaign’s foreign policy debates.
The Larger Context
U.S.–India Relations
The U.S. and India have deepened ties in defense, technology, and trade, but energy has often been a friction point. Navarro, known for his hawkish trade stance during Trump’s presidency, has long accused India of “unfair tariffs” and “job-stealing practices.”
Global Oil Politics
- Russia redirected crude exports to Asia after Western sanctions.
- India and China became top buyers.
- Washington has quietly tolerated India’s imports, focusing instead on limiting Russia’s overall revenue.
Navarro’s hardline stance does not reflect the broader U.S. administration’s nuanced approach.
Analysis: Why Navarro’s Words Matter
Even though Navarro currently holds no official post, his influence in Trump’s inner circle means his comments can’t be dismissed outright. If Trump returns to power in 2025, voices like Navarro’s may shape Washington’s policies on energy, trade, and India.
His choice of inflammatory language — calling India’s trade “blood money” — highlights the growing tension between populist U.S. politics and the realities of global economics.
Key Takeaways
- Peter Navarro has intensified his attacks on India over Russian oil, using harsh language.
- X’s Community Notes repeatedly fact-checked his claims, labeling them misleading.
- India continues to defend its Russian oil imports as an economic necessity.
- Experts say Navarro’s rhetoric may reflect future Republican foreign policy pressures.