Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov told NDTV Defence Summit Sunday that a senior US official allegedly said Washington would never allow India to become the next China during this year's Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.
Alipov described the remark as a "Freudian slip" and warned that it signals a broader US effort to contain India's rise, framing the comment as a strategic message rather than a mere offhand remark.
The claim surfaces as the United States implements the Graham Act, a 2026 law signed by Donald Trump that empowers the Treasury to impose tariffs of up to 100% on any country that purchases Russian oil or gas, effectively tightening economic pressure on Russia and its allies.
India, which has been buying Russian crude at competitive rates, has defended its purchases as essential for its domestic economy, arguing that the decision is driven by national interest rather than geopolitical alignment.
Alipov underscored the durability of Indo‑Russian ties, noting that the two nations celebrated 80 years of diplomatic relations next year and that their partnership has survived major shifts in global politics.
The looming enforcement of the Graham Act could force India to reconsider its energy sourcing strategy, while Moscow and New Delhi await further US moves that might elevate tariffs on Russian energy imports.