Peter Navarro, a senior White House trade adviser known for his protectionist stance on global trade, has once again turned his attention toward India, this time accusing New Delhi of running what he describes as a profiteering scheme through its purchase of discounted oil from Russia. His remarks have reignited debate over the geopolitical and economic implications of India’s energy policies since the outbreak of the Ukraine war.

China has intensified its regional strategy by pushing the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0) to Kabul, just a day after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi wrapped up his India visit. The timing reflects Beijing’s balancing act reaching out to New Delhi for improved ties while simultaneously strengthening its foothold in the Af-Pak region. In Kabul, Wang Yi met Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi and Pakistan