Russian oil controversy: Rahul Gandhi claims PM Modi ‘frightened of Trump’

New Delhi: Following US President Donald Trump’s statement about India’s assurance to stop buying Russian oil, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of being afraid of Trump. Gandhi shared his comments on X on Thursday, highlighting what he called Modi’s submissive approach towards the US.

He claimed that PM Modi is “frightened of Trump” after he “allowed” the US president to “decide and announce that India will not buy Russian oil.”

The Congress MP also said that Modi continues to “keep sending congratulatory messages despite repeated snubs.”

What did Donald Trump claim?

Earlier, Trump stated that PM Modi had given him “assurance” that India will no longer purchase Russian oil. Speaking at the Oval Office, Trump said, “I was not happy that India was buying oil. And he (Modi) assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That's a big stop.”

Trump further added that he shares a “great relationship” with PM Modi and revealed that after India, he would now “get China to do the same thing.”

Why has India’s Russian oil purchase been controversial?

India’s purchase of Russian oil has been in the spotlight since August when Trump imposed an additional 25 percent tariff on New Delhi. This increased the total US tariffs on India to 50 percent.

In response, PM Modi emphasised that he would not compromise on the livelihood of farmers even if it meant “paying a heavy price.”

The prime minister also reiterated his push for the “Make in India” initiative and self-reliance. In his Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, he stated, “We should become self-reliant - not out of desperation, but out of pride.”

He further added, “Economic selfishness is on the rise globally and we mustn't sit and cry about our difficulties, we must rise above and not allow others to hold us in their clutches.”