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American singer and cultural ambassador Mary Millben on Friday sharply criticised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his remarks suggesting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is “frightened” of US President Donald Trump.

In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Millben said Gandhi’s claim was “wrong” and that Prime Minister Modi understands diplomacy and long-term strategy better than most leaders. Her comments came a day after Gandhi alleged that PM Modi allowed Trump to dictate India’s oil policy and foreign engagements.

“You are wrong, Rahul Gandhi. PM Narendra Modi is not afraid of President Trump,” Millben wrote. “PM Modi understands the long game, and his diplomacy with the US is strategic. Just as Trump will always put America’s interests first, so will PM Modi do what is best for India. And I applaud that.”

The American singer, known for her close association with India and frequent praise of Modi’s leadership, went further in her criticism, writing, “That’s what Heads of State do. They do and say what is best for their country. I don’t expect you to understand this type of leadership because you don’t possess the acumen to be the PM of India. Best to return to your ‘I hate India’ tour that has an audience of one, you.”

Rahul Gandhi’s Claim Sparks Debate

Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on Thursday came after Donald Trump claimed during a media interaction that PM Modi had assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia. The Congress leader cited this as evidence that Modi “fears” Trump and allows the US to influence India’s foreign policy decisions.

“PM Modi is frightened of Trump,” Gandhi wrote on X, listing five reasons to support his view. He accused the Prime Minister of cancelling official visits, accepting US pressure over oil imports, and remaining silent on Trump’s alleged remarks about ‘Operation Sindoor’.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh also criticised the government, pointing out that US officials, not Indian representatives, were the first to announce the suspension of the operation.

Praised PM Modi’s Approach 

Millben’s post quickly gained traction on social media, drawing praise from supporters of the Prime Minister and several users who hailed her comments as a “fitting reply” to Gandhi.

One user wrote, “Well said, Mary. Any true nationalist can see Modiji’s smart diplomacy and long-term vision.” Another said, “PM Modi doesn’t play for applause; he plays for India’s advantage. That’s leadership.”

Millben’s Connection With India

Mary Millben, who first met PM Modi during his 2023 state visit to the United States, has often expressed admiration for the Indian leader. She has performed Indian patriotic songs, including “Jana Gana Mana” and “Om Jai Jagdish Hare,” at major cultural events, calling India her “spiritual home.”

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The singer, who serves as a US cultural ambassador, has been vocal about strengthening India–US relations and often highlights Modi’s role in building mutual respect between the two democracies.

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Millben’s latest remarks add to the growing list of global voices responding to Rahul Gandhi’s controversial statement, as the debate over India’s diplomatic independence and energy policy continues to intensify online.

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