WASHINGTON (Reuters)-An important advisor to US President Donald Trump accused India of effectively funding the Russian war in Ukraine buying Moscow oil after the US leader increased pressure on New Delhi to stop buying Russian oil.
“What he (Trump) said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue to finance this war by buying Russian oil,” said Stephen Miller, White House’s office chief and one of Trump’s most influential advisers.
Miller’s criticism was one of the strongest ever made by the Trump administration about one of the leading US partners in Indo-Pacific.
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“People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China when buying Russian oil. This is a surprising fact,” Miller said on Fox News.
The India embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a commentary request. Sources from the Indian government told Reuters on Saturday that New Delhi will continue to buy Moscow oil despite the US threats.
A 25% rate on Indian products came into force on Friday as a result of the purchase of Russian military equipment and energy. Trump also threatened to impose 100% rates on imports from Russian oil countries unless Moscow reaches a great peace agreement with Ukraine.
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Miller softened his criticism by highlighting Trump’s relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he described as “extraordinary.”
