A political controversy has erupted following claims by former US President Donald Trump that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would cease buying Russian oil. Responding to this, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has launched a scathing attack on PM Modi, accusing him of being intimidated by Trump. Gandhi suggested that this alleged fear prevents Modi from contradicting Trump, even on sensitive matters like Operation Sindoor. The Rae Bareli MP questioned Modi’s diplomatic autonomy, pointing out the Prime Minister’s continued gestures of goodwill towards Trump despite apparent rebuffs.
During a White House address, Trump told reporters, “He (Modi) is a great friend of mine. I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia; that’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same thing.” Gandhi interpreted this as a sign of Modi’s subservience, noting that Modi allegedly allows Trump to unilaterally announce India’s energy policy shifts. The Congress leader also listed other instances, including diplomatic snubs and past event cancellations, to bolster his argument that PM Modi is overly accommodating towards Trump.