Saturday, March 29, 2025
US Congresswoman Waves Modi–Putin Selfie in Parliament, Targets Trump: “You Can’t Win a Nobel Like This”
A dramatic moment unfolded in the United States Congress when Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove arrived holding a large poster featuring a selfie of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. She displayed the poster during an active debate on U.S. foreign policy, sharply criticizing President Donald Trump’s approach toward India.
Pointing at the poster, Kamlager-Dove said the image itself “speaks louder than a thousand words,” arguing that Trump’s policies are driving India closer to Russia at a critical time.
She added that the U.S. is weakening its strategic partnership with India and damaging long-term trust.
Her strong remark caught attention across the House:
“You don’t win a Nobel Peace Prize by pushing your strategic partners into the arms of your adversaries.”
Kamlager-Dove condemned Trump’s repeated pressure on New Delhi, saying:
His tactics are “hurting both countries.”
They cause “lasting damage to strategic trust and understanding.”
The U.S. must “wake up” and realize that forced partnerships come at a heavy cost.
The poster displayed in Congress came from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two-day visit to India last week—his first official visit since the Russia–Ukraine war began in 2022.
Breaking protocol, PM Modi personally received Putin at the airport. Both leaders travelled together in the same car, during which the selfie was taken. They had also previously shared a ride during a 2024 SCO Summit.
Putin’s warm reception in India has concerned both the U.S. and Europe, who have tried to isolate Russia economically and diplomatically over the Ukraine war.
Key factors fueling Western frustration:
India continues to buy discounted Russian crude oil, despite U.S. pressure to stop.
Many European nations themselves still buy Russian energy—something India has repeatedly pointed out.
The U.S. imposed tariffs on India, attempting to force compliance, but the approach failed.
In contrast, India has maintained a balanced, independent foreign policy without openly supporting any side in the war.
Putin’s visit demonstrated that Russia is not fully isolated, weakening the West’s long-term plan. India’s warm welcome signaled its intention to maintain strong ties with both the U.S. and Russia based on national interests.
