Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin has sharply criticised US President Donald Trump for damaging Washington’s relationship with New Delhi. He said Trump’s “gross incompetence” has pushed India and Russia closer at a crucial time. Rubin noted that many Americans are “flabbergasted” by Trump’s decisions, which, he claimed, have undone years of strategic progress.
Rubin questioned Trump’s motives. He suggested that Pakistan’s “flattery” or even “bribery” from Pakistan, Turkey, or Qatar may have influenced the US President. He warned that these actions could create a “strategic deficit” for the US for decades.
He also criticised Washington for “lecturing” India over its purchase of Russian oil. Rubin said the US buys goods from Russia when it suits its interests, which makes its stance “hypocritical.” He argued that India has every right to prioritise its energy needs as it becomes the world’s third-largest economy.
Rubin urged the US to offer cheaper fuel instead of criticism. “If we cannot provide an answer, we should stay silent,” he said.
Trump recently imposed 50% tariffs on many Indian products over India’s continued Russian oil imports. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin visited New Delhi for the 23rd India-Russia Summit and promised uninterrupted fuel supplies to India’s growing economy.
