Sat Dec 06 13:49:33 UTC 2025: Headline: Ex-Pentagon Official Blames Trump’s “Incompetence” for Strengthening India-Russia Ties
Washington D.C. – Former Pentagon official Michael Rubin has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump, alleging his policies and actions drove India closer to Russia. In an interview, Rubin claimed Trump’s actions, including imposing tariffs on Indian goods, have reversed the traditionally strong relationship between Washington and New Delhi.
Rubin suggests Trump’s motives were questionable, hinting at possible Pakistani influence, either through flattery or bribery. “This is one disastrous bribe that is going to saddle America with a strategic deficit for decades to come,” he stated.
His comments come in the wake of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to India, where he pledged uninterrupted fuel shipments to the rapidly growing Indian economy. The summit, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on energy, defense, and trade cooperation.
Rubin also criticized the U.S. for lecturing India on its continued purchase of Russian oil, pointing out the hypocrisy given Washington’s own trade with Moscow. He argued that India, as a rising global power, is prioritizing its own energy needs, which is a justified position. Instead of lecturing, Rubin suggested the U.S. should compete by offering India fuel at a more competitive price. “India needs to take care of Indian security first,” he said.
Trump imposed punitive 50 percent tariffs on most Indian products in August, citing New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil. During Putin’s visit, he reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to being a reliable supplier of energy to India.
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