US Senator Lindsey Graham, one of Donald Trump's closest allies and a leading Republican voice on foreign policy, has died at 71. But why is he significant for India? Graham was a key supporter of stronger US-India strategic and defence ties, viewing New Delhi as a crucial partner in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's growing influence. At the same time, he repeatedly criticised India's continued purchases of Russian oil after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, urging Washington to increase pressure on countries buying Russian energy.

The US Republican senator died of a sudden illness, his office said. He was 71.

Republican senator had served in the Senate since 2003 and was a sharp critic of Trump before becoming one of his most loyal backers