White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has said he was “firebombed” online by Indians following his criticism of India’s purchases of Russian oil, highlighting the growing tensions between New Delhi and Washington over energy trade and proposed US tariffs.

Navarro, a senior trade adviser to US President Donald Trump, has repeatedly criticised India over its trade policies and its continued purchases of Russian crude. His latest comments came amid renewed discussions over the possibility of imposing a much higher tariff on Indian goods linked to Russian oil imports.

Using the term “firebombed” to describe the reaction, Navarro referred to the intense criticism he received online from Indian users after making remarks about India’s energy relationship with Russia. The comments have added another layer to an already sensitive diplomatic and trade dispute.

The Trump administration has argued that purchases of Russian oil provide Moscow with revenue that can support its war effort in Ukraine. India, however, has maintained that its energy decisions are guided primarily by national interests, energy security and the need to secure affordable crude for its large economy.

The dispute has also raised concerns about a potential 100% US tariff on Indian exports if India continues buying Russian oil. Navarro, however, struck a conciliatory tone, saying Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have a strong relationship and would be able to work through the issue.

The latest remarks come as India-US trade relations remain under pressure. New Delhi faces the difficult task of balancing its strategic relationship with Washington against its long-standing ties with Moscow and its dependence on imported crude oil.

Despite the heated rhetoric, Navarro indicated that the disagreement over Russian oil does not necessarily signal a breakdown in India-US relations. His comments suggested that both sides could still seek a negotiated solution through diplomatic and trade discussions.

The controversy underscores the broader challenge facing India: maintaining energy security while navigating growing pressure from Western governments over its economic engagement with Russia.