Indian officials Cast Skepticism on President Trump's Assertions About Ending Russian crude Purchases

India has raised doubts regarding claims made by President Trump that PM Modi had committed to cease purchasing Russian oil.

Trump's Claims and New Delhi's Reaction

Earlier this week, Trump stated that Prime Minister Modi had given him assurances “today” that India would put an end to its purchase of Russian oil.

“I was not happy that the Indian administration was purchasing crude, and he [Modi] has guaranteed me on this day that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. Understandably, it cannot happen instantly. There is a procedural aspect, but the transition is going to be completed shortly,” Trump told reporters.

However, in a press briefing on Thursday, Indian officials appeared to undermine the American leader's version, stating that there was “no telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump yesterday”.

Background of India-Russia Relations and Crude Acquisitions

India, which upholds a close ties with the Kremlin, has become one of the biggest buyers of Russian oil since the invasion of the Eastern European country.

It has been a significant source of contention with Washington in the past few months, after the US president failed to secure a peace deal with Russia.

• In August, the American leader imposed significant import duties on the Indian economy to sanction its purchase of Russian oil.
• He accused Delhi of helping to finance Moscow's military actions in Ukraine.
• India is subject to additional 25% import tariffs, on top of a standard of a quarter.

India's Stance and Energy Strategy

The Indian administration has publicly stood firm, claiming it would not allow the US determine its energy needs or interfere in its partnership with Russia, which dates back to the cold war.

Moscow continues to be the largest supplier of arms to the Indian armed forces.

Just before Trump's remarks, the Indian government said negotiations with the US over commerce and import duties were still in progress.

A official communication by the foreign ministry said the main goal was to “safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a unstable fuel market” and that all policies were guided by the necessity to diversify and ensure India’s energy sources.

Benefits and Consequences

India has reaped significant benefit from its acquisition of discounted crude from Russia since Russia's extensive military campaign of Ukraine in early 2022, establishing itself as one of its leading buyers globally, only behind China.

Nonetheless, it has led to a severe deterioration in US-India relations.

US administration has frequently alleged Indian leadership of financing the Russian president, President Putin's operations against the Ukrainian state, labeling the conflict as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

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