🔗 Share this article

India has raised doubts regarding assertions made by President Trump that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil.

Trump's Claims and New Delhi's Reaction

On Wednesday, Trump claimed that Prime Minister Modi had assured him “today” that India would discontinue its purchase of Russian oil.

“I was displeased that India was buying oil, and he [Modi] has guaranteed me today that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. You know, you can’t do it immediately. There is a procedural aspect, but the transition is going to be over with soon,” the former president told reporters.

However, in a press briefing on the following day, representatives from India seemed to contradict the American leader's version, stating that there was “no telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump yesterday”.

Background of India-Russia Ties and Oil Acquisitions

India, which maintains a strong relationship with the Kremlin, has emerged as one of the biggest buyers of Russian crude since the invasion of the Eastern European country.

This has become a significant source of contention with Washington in the past few months, since Trump failed to secure a ceasefire agreement with Russia.

• In August, the US president imposed some of his highest tariffs on the Indian economy to sanction its procurement of Russian oil.
• Trump alleged the Indian government of contributing funds to Moscow's military actions in Ukraine.
• The country is subject to extra import duties of 25%, in addition to a standard of a quarter.

New Delhi's Position and Oil Policy

The Indian administration has consistently maintained its position, asserting it would not allow the US determine its fuel requirements or interfere in its partnership with Russia, which originates from the cold war.

Moscow remains the largest supplier of arms to India.

Just before Trump's remarks, the Indian government said discussions with the United States over trade and tariffs were ongoing.

A official communication by the foreign ministry said the priority was to “safeguard the interests of the citizens of India in a unstable fuel market” and that all strategies were dictated by the necessity to broaden and secure India’s energy sources.

Advantages and Repercussions

India has reaped significant benefit from its purchase of discounted Russian oil since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor in early 2022, establishing itself as one of its top purchasers worldwide, only behind China.

However, it has resulted in a severe deterioration in bilateral ties between Washington and New Delhi.

The White House has increasingly sought to accuse Delhi of bankrolling the Kremlin leader, Vladimir Putin’s actions against Ukraine, describing the conflict as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

Yet, on Wednesday the US president spoke glowingly of the Indian prime minister. “The PM is an exceptional leader. He has affection for me,” he said.