US President Donald Trump repeated his assertion that India has agreed to cut back on Russian oil imports, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi provided this assurance during a recent phone call. The remarks were made at the White House’s Diwali event, reinforcing US efforts to isolate Russia economically over its war in Ukraine.
Trump made the comments on Tuesday during celebrations for the Hindu festival of Diwali, telling reporters that Modi had assured him India “was not going to buy much oil from Russia” and wants to see the Ukraine conflict end. The Indian leader acknowledged the call and Trump’s Diwali greetings on social media but did not address the oil import claim, maintaining a silence that has drawn domestic political criticism.
This is not the first time Trump has made such statements; last week, he similarly claimed Modi would halt Russian oil purchases, but the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said it was unaware of any such conversation. On Wednesday, following the latest remarks, a ministry official told the BBC there was no new comment, indicating Delhi’s continued reluctance to confirm or deny the assurances amid sensitive diplomatic negotiations.
India has become one of the largest buyers of Russian crude since the Ukraine war began in 2022, capitalizing on discounted prices to meet its energy needs. Western nations have shunned Russian oil and imposed sanctions, but India has defended its imports as essential for energy security, noting that many Western countries maintain trade with Russia in other sectors.
The US has applied significant pressure, including imposing additional tariffs of up to 50% on Indian goods, with a 25% penalty specifically for purchasing Russian oil. US officials have accused India of indirectly funding Russia’s war effort, a charge Delhi denies, emphasizing its neutral stance and the pragmatic need for affordable energy for its growing economy.
Recent trade negotiations between the two countries have seen a softening in Trump’s tone, with discussions focused on deepening energy cooperation. An Indian government spokesman mentioned ongoing talks with the US administration, which has shown interest in collaborative energy initiatives, suggesting a potential compromise to avoid further trade disruptions.
A report from the Mint newspaper suggested that a deal could be imminent, with India possibly agreeing to gradually reduce Russian oil imports, according to sources familiar with the matter. However, no official confirmation has been provided, and the commerce ministry has not commented, leaving the situation uncertain amid global market watchfulness.
The situation highlights the complex dynamics of US-India relations, balancing strategic partnerships against economic interests. If India reduces Russian oil imports, it could impact global energy markets and Russia’s revenue, but alternatives must be found to avoid disrupting India’s economy. Moving forward, the outcome of trade talks and any formal agreement on oil imports will be closely watched, as they could influence broader geopolitical alignments and efforts to end the Ukraine war.