Peter Navarro, a prominent American economist and Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing to US President Donald Trump, has ignited widespread outrage in India with a series of incendiary remarks. Navarro branded India a “laundromat for the Kremlin,” accusing the nation of profiteering from the Russia-Ukraine war by purchasing discounted Russian oil and reselling refined products. He has called for a 50% tariff on Indian goods, citing unfair trade practices and national security concerns. Furthermore, Navarro stirred significant controversy by invoking India’s caste system, alleging that “Brahmins are profiteering at the expense of the Indian people.” These statements have drawn condemnation across India, with critics accusing him of racism and casteism. Once focused on China, Navarro now targets India’s foreign policy, referring to the Ukraine conflict as “Modi’s war” and questioning India’s ties with Russia and China. His past includes a conviction for contempt of Congress.
