Trump Repeats Claim That India Will Reduce Russian Oil Imports
U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his claim that India will sharply cut its purchases of Russian oil, stating that he personally got assurances to this effect from Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a phone call earlier this week. Speaking to reporters at a Diwali event at the White House, Trump stated that Modi had confirmed his commitment to phasing out Russian crude imports as part of a broader effort to help end the war in Ukraine. “Prime Minister Modi wants to see the war come to an end, and he’s made it very clear that they’re reducing their Russian oil. It’s already happening,” Trump told reporters on Tuesday.
India Remains Silent, Denies Confirmation Of Negotiations
Indian authorities, however, have not yet confirmed any deal or statement by Prime Minister Modi in response to Trump’s statements. India’s Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that its energy policy remains driven by “national interests” and “consumer security,” and refused to confirm any recent phone call between the two leaders. Authorities clarified that import choices depend on price and international market stability, rather than external diplomatic pressure.
Modi had responded to Trump’s “Diwali greetings” in a tweet but did not mention Russia or oil policy. This silence has fueled speculation that New Delhi remains cautious about bowing to U.S. demands, given that Russia currently provides more than 35% of India’s crude oil requirements at discounted prices.
U.S. Push For Energy Shift Amid Strategic Tensions
The White House has been urging India for months to cut back on its reliance on Russian oil, warning that continued imports help sustain Moscow’s war funding. Trump has even linked U.S. trade tariffs on Indian goods to the issue, suggesting those duties could stay in place until Russian imports fall sharply. “If they continue importing Russian oil, they will continue paying tariffs,” he said in an interview with reporters on Air Force One last week.
Analysts in both Washington and New Delhi observed that India faces a complex balancing act, maintaining affordable fuel supplies while managing ties with both Washington and Moscow. US officials describe the remarks made by Trump as a sign of hope regarding India’s gradual transition, but Indian analysts term it as an instance of “diplomatic overstatement” before international summits, when both leaders will be meeting later this month.​
News At Glance
- Trump reiterates India’s commitment to reducing Russian oil imports after call with Modi.
- India’s government denies confirming any recent conversation on the matter.
- US links continued trade tariffs to India’s Russian oil dealings.
- Russia remains India’s biggest crude supplier, supplying more than one-third of its oil.
FAQ
- What did Trump claim regarding India and Russian oil?
He said Prime Minister Modi assured him India would gradually reduce Russian oil imports by the end of 2025.
- How did India react to Trump’s statement?
India has not confirmed any agreement, stating that its energy policy relies on consumer demand and market stability.
- Why does the U.S. want India to stop buying Russian oil?
Washington feels that India’s purchases spoil sanctions intended to weaken Russia’s war economy.
- How much oil does India currently import from Russia?
India imports over 35% of its oil from Russia, making it one of Moscow’s biggest existing customers.
