Stinging criticism has been leveled against US foreign policy concerning Pakistan by a former Pentagon official, Michael Rubin. Rubin controversially stated that Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir ‘should be arrested’ upon entering the US, rather than being welcomed. He also called for Pakistan to be officially designated a ‘state sponsor of terrorism,’ asserting a complete lack of strategic benefit for the US in its current engagement with Islamabad.
Rubin questioned the rationale behind Pakistan’s designation as a major non-NATO ally, arguing for a definitive shift in diplomatic approach. The former official also voiced strong disapproval of Donald Trump’s past decision to levy substantial tariffs on India due to its oil imports from Russia. Rubin believes this was an unfair stance and that the US owes India a public apology, even if Trump himself is unwilling to offer one. He highlighted the importance of prioritizing national interests and global democratic principles over individual pride.
Furthermore, Rubin commented on the complex geopolitical landscape of energy. He acknowledged Russia’s offer to increase oil supplies to India and commended Indian leadership for prioritizing national needs. Rubin also noted a degree of hypocrisy in the US position, suggesting that Washington’s lectures to India on Russian energy are inconsistent with its own energy dealings. He concluded that without offering a viable and cost-effective energy solution to India, the US should refrain from criticism, as India’s security remains its paramount concern.