During the recent Nomination Hearing held by the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on September 11, 2025, discussions centered on the critical role of India in resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The nominee highlighted the strong personal relationship between President Trump and Indian Prime Minister Modi, suggesting that this connection could be leveraged to influence India's energy policies, particularly its purchase of Russian oil.

The nominee emphasized that President Trump is committed to ending the conflict in Ukraine and sees India as a key player in this effort. Currently, India is buying discounted Russian crude oil, refining it, and selling it back to Europe, which complicates the U.S. goal of reducing Russia's financial resources. The nominee stated that stopping these transactions is a top priority for the administration, as it aligns with broader efforts to promote peace globally.

The conversation also touched on the historical tensions between India and China, underscoring that despite recent diplomatic engagements, India shares more common interests with the United States than with China. The nominee expressed confidence that the personal rapport between President Trump and Prime Minister Modi could facilitate deeper cooperation and understanding, which is essential at a time when international relations are increasingly complex.

In conclusion, the hearing underscored the significance of U.S.-India relations in addressing global conflicts, particularly in the context of energy security and geopolitical stability. The nominee's potential confirmation could pave the way for enhanced diplomatic efforts aimed at leveraging India's unique position in the ongoing crisis.