US President Donald Trump has reaffirmed that India has consented to progressively decrease its purchases of Russian crude oil, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed this decision during a telephone call earlier in the week.
During a Diwali event at the White House on Tuesday, Trump informed reporters that Modi had expressed that India would not be purchasing significant amounts of oil from Russia and desires an end to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Modi later acknowledged Trump’s “kind Diwali greetings” in a social media update, but did not address any talks about Russian energy supplies.
Last week, Trump made a comparable assertion, although India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated at that time it was “not aware” of such a discussion. On Wednesday, a ministry representative told the BBC that there were “no new comments” regarding Trump’s latest statements.
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“I spoke to Prime Minister Modi today,” Trump reiterated on Tuesday. “We just have a very good relationship. They’ve cut it way back and will continue to cut it way back,” he said, referring to India’s purchases of Russian crude.
Since the onset of Western sanctions against Moscow in 2022, India has become one of the top purchasers of discounted Russian oil. New Delhi has justified its choice, claiming that low-cost imports are vital for its energy security and to shield citizens from fluctuations in global prices.
Indian officials have emphasized that many Western countries, such as the United States and European Union members, still maintain selective trade relationships with Russia despite the sanctions.
The Trump administration has aimed to limit India’s energy ties with Moscow as part of a larger strategy to economically isolate Russia. Recently, Washington enacted 50% tariffs on certain Indian products, along with an additional 25% penalty related to ongoing purchases of Russian oil.
However, Trump’s tone has softened as trade talks between Washington and New Delhi progress. Recently, an official from the Indian government indicated that talks remain “ongoing” and mentioned that the US has expressed interest in enhancing energy collaboration with India.
