NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT
Washington, D.C., August 7, 2025: The National Federation of Indian American Associations (NFIA), an umbrella body representing Indian Americans across the United States, has issued a strong statement condemning recent remarks by South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, calling them “irresponsible” and “damaging” to U.S.-India ties.
The remarks in question were made during an interview on Fox News, where Senator Graham warned countries continuing to purchase discounted oil from Russia — including India — of harsh retaliatory measures.
“If you keep buying cheap Russian oil … we’re going to tear the hell out of you, and we’re going to crush your economy,” Graham declared, directly referencing India, China, and Brazil.
He further accused these countries of profiting off the war in Ukraine:
“You’re buying cheap Russian oil at the expense of the world, and President Trump is tired of this game.”
The senator, a longtime ally of former President Donald Trump, added:
“China, India, and Brazil … face a choice between the American economy or helping Putin. And I think they’re going to come pick the American economy.”
In a jointly signed letter, National President Satish Gabhawala (Illinois), National Chair Raj Razdan (Georgia), and Executive Director Dr. Hari Har Singh (Washington, D.C.) urged Senator Graham to retract what they called “wanton remarks” and called on U.S. lawmakers to pursue “a more balanced and forward-looking approach” to bilateral relations.
“India, as the world’s largest democracy and a strategic ally of the United States, has consistently acted in its national interest while maintaining a responsible and balanced foreign policy,” the NFIA said. “In times of global energy crises, caused in large part by the conflict in Ukraine, India’s decision to secure affordable energy for its vast population is not only understandable, but necessary.”
NFIA emphasized that India has contributed humanitarian aid to Ukraine, supported diplomacy, and adhered to international norms — all while carefully managing its own geopolitical relationships.
The organization also criticized the rhetoric tying India’s sovereign energy decisions to trade punishment:
“Senator Graham’s attempt to frame India’s actions as justification for punitive economic measures fails to recognize the complexities of geopolitics and economic survival for developing nations,” the statement read. “Further, linking India’s oil imports to tariff disagreements distracts from the more constructive goal of strengthening bilateral trade ties.”
NFIA countered that it is hypocritical to single out India when the United States itself continues significant trade with Russia.
“We urge Senator Graham and all U.S. policymakers to recognize India as a reliable partner, not a target for blame,” the letter said.
The statement concluded with a reminder that strong strategic partnerships are built on “mutual respect, understanding, and the recognition of each nation’s right to protect its national interests.”
NFIA’s call for a more nuanced approach comes at a time when the Indian American community plays an increasingly visible role in shaping U.S. political discourse and diplomacy.
Photo of Sen. Lindsey Graham courtesy Wikimedia. Background designed by AI.
