Kejriwal Criticizes Modi Over US Approval for Russian Oil Purchases
Kejriwal Demands Modi's Resignation
On Friday, Arvind Kejriwal, the former Chief Minister of Delhi and leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, called for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to resign. This demand came in response to the Indian government's recent criticism regarding a waiver granted by the United States for Indian refiners to purchase oil from Russia. In a post on X, Kejriwal questioned why India needs permission from the US to buy oil from Russia, accusing the Prime Minister of repeatedly bowing to Donald Trump in recent months without speaking out.
Kejriwal expressed his frustration on X, asking, "Who is the US to grant India permission to buy oil from Russia? Why does India need approval from the US?" He lamented that citizens have witnessed the Prime Minister yielding to Trump at every turn, lacking the courage to speak up. He challenged Modi, asking what compels him to bow to Trump.
He further emphasized that India, with its rich history and a population of 1.4 billion, has produced numerous brave leaders and warriors. Kejriwal stated that India has never bowed to any nation in such a manner and claimed that the current leadership appears weaker than ever. He urged Modi to resign if there are genuine pressures that Trump is exploiting, stating, "Please do not let India bow down like this. The citizens are deeply saddened."
Context of the Criticism
Kejriwal's remarks followed a statement from US Treasury Secretary Scott Pruitt, who noted that oil and gas production has reached unprecedented levels due to President Trump's energy agenda. To maintain oil supply in the global market, the Treasury Department issued a temporary 30-day waiver allowing Indian refiners to purchase Russian oil.
He added that this short-term measure would not provide significant financial benefits to the Russian government, as it only authorizes transactions related to stranded oil. India is a crucial partner of the United States, and there are expectations that New Delhi will increase its purchases of American oil. This temporary measure aims to alleviate pressures arising from Iran's attempts to hold global energy hostage.