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Rahul Gandhi criticizes Jaishankar's US meeting with Marco Rubio

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has questioned External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggesting an imbalance in the bilateral relationship. Gandhi's comments reflect ongoing political debate over India's diplomatic engagement with the United States.

LSN India · 16 October 2026

Rahul Gandhi criticizes Jaishankar's US meeting with Marco Rubio

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has criticized External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, using pointed language to question the dynamics of India-U.S. relations. Gandhi's remarks suggest concerns about the hierarchical nature of the diplomatic engagement, implying that India may be responding to U.S. initiatives rather than setting its own diplomatic agenda.

The opposition leader's comments come as India maintains its strategic partnership with the United States across defense, technology, and economic cooperation. However, Gandhi's criticism reflects broader political discourse within India regarding the balance of power in bilateral relationships and the autonomy of Indian foreign policy.

The Congress party has previously raised questions about India's alignment with U.S. policies, particularly on issues relating to regional stability and independent decision-making. Gandhi's latest remarks add to ongoing political debate about how India should position itself in its diplomatic relations with major powers.

The meeting between Jaishankar and Rubio is part of routine high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations. India's External Affairs Ministry has not directly responded to Gandhi's criticism. Such political commentary on foreign policy decisions is common in Indian political discourse, reflecting differing perspectives on how the nation should conduct its international relations.