In a statement that sparked global attention, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India would “stop buying oil from Russia,” calling it a “big step” towards isolating Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine war. Speaking at a press briefing in Washington, Trump said Modi acknowledged the transition “won’t happen overnight” but described it as “a little bit of a process.”
The remarks come as Washington continues to pressure New Delhi to align more closely with Western sanctions on Russia. India, however, has long defended its energy trade with Moscow, citing national interests and favorable pricing. Officials in New Delhi have not confirmed Trump’s claim, and the Indian Embassy in Washington has so far declined to comment. Russia responded cautiously, saying it remains confident that its “strategic energy partnership with India will continue.” Analysts note that any abrupt shift could disrupt India’s refining sector, which relies on discounted Russian crude for nearly 35% of its imports. Trump also indicated plans to persuade China to reduce its Russian energy dependence, framing the move as part of a broader geopolitical effort to limit Moscow’s revenues. For now, Trump’s assertion remains a diplomatic signal rather than a confirmed policy shift by New Delhi.
