Modi’s War? Why Peter Navarro Is Wrong About India and Ukraine

When the world talks about the ongoing Ukraine war, there are many voices that try to define who is right and who is wrong. Recently one such voice came from Peter Navarro, the former trade adviser to Donald Trump in the United States. In a very strong statement he described the conflict as "Modi's war." The words were sharp, dramatic and instantly caught the attention of media across the world. But do these words reflect reality, or do they hide a different agenda?

The Background: The Ukraine War in Simple Words

The war between Russia and Ukraine began in early 2022 when Russian forces crossed into Ukraine. Since then the world has been divided into two broad positions. The United States, the European Union, and many of their allies have strongly opposed Russia’s actions and have supported Ukraine with weapons, money, and sanctions on Russia. On the other side, countries like India, China, and many developing nations have chosen not to take sides directly. Instead, they have continued to trade with both countries while consistently calling for peace and dialogue.

For India, the choice has never been easy. Russia has been a long-standing defence partner for India for more than five decades. At the same time, India has close and growing ties with the United States and Europe. Walking this tightrope requires balance, maturity, and a deep understanding of national interest.

What Peter Navarro Said and What He Really Meant

Peter Navarro recently accused India of "fueling Putin’s war machine" by continuing to buy Russian oil at discounted prices. According to him, every barrel of Russian oil bought by India helps Moscow continue its military action in Ukraine. He went even further by calling the entire conflict "Modi’s war," suggesting that India’s decisions are directly responsible for prolonging the conflict.

But his words have a deeper meaning. By calling it "Modi's war," Navarro is trying to shift some of the global blame onto India. He wants to pressure India to stop purchasing Russian oil by linking trade tariffs to India’s decisions. The United States has recently imposed fifty percent tariffs on several Indian exports. Navarro has hinted that these tariffs can be reduced if India cuts its oil imports from Russia. In other words, it is less about morality and more about economic and political pressure.

The Truth About India’s Role in the Modi Ukraine War Debate

India’s position has always been consistent and transparent.

1. Energy Security Comes First: India is the third largest consumer of energy in the world. To keep its economy moving and to ensure that citizens are not crushed under high fuel prices, India must secure affordable energy. Buying discounted oil from Russia is not a crime, it is a necessity. Every responsible government puts the well-being of its citizens first.

2. No Hypocrisy in India’s Policy: While India is being criticised, the reality is that Europe continues to buy large volumes of Russian energy in indirect ways. Many European nations import refined oil products that are made using Russian crude. If Europe can find ways to secure its own energy needs, why should India alone be singled out?

3. India Has Always Called for Peace: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly told President Putin and other world leaders that "this is not the era of war." India has spoken clearly at global forums that dialogue and diplomacy are the only ways forward. India has also supported humanitarian aid for Ukraine. This is not the behaviour of a country that fuels conflict. This is the behaviour of a responsible nation seeking peace.

4. Strategic Autonomy Is India’s Right: India has always followed the principle of strategic autonomy. That means India will not blindly follow any bloc, whether it is the West or Russia or China. Decisions are made in New Delhi, not in Washington or Moscow. This independence is what gives India credibility as a global voice of balance.

   
   

The Real Agenda Behind Navarro’s Statement

Peter Navarro’s comments must be seen in context. He is a politician and an adviser known for strong protectionist ideas. By attacking India, he is also justifying the tariffs that hurt Indian exporters. He wants to show American voters that the tough trade measures have a moral reason, when in fact they are primarily about economics.

By calling the Ukraine conflict “Modi’s war,” Navarro is trying to make India look guilty in the eyes of the world. But the truth is very different. India is not responsible for this war. India did not start it, India did not support it, and India has always pushed for an end to it.

What It Really Means for India

Words like "Modi’s war" may sound powerful in headlines, but they do not change facts. The fact is that India has always acted in its own national interest while staying committed to peace and stability. India has balanced its relationships with honesty and clarity.

History will not remember India as a country that fueled conflict. It will remember India as a country that stayed true to its principles, secured the future of its people, and still raised its voice for peace.

Peter Navarro may shout from across the ocean, but India will continue to walk its path with confidence and dignity.