India Cast Skepticism on Trump's Claims About Ending Russian crude Imports

India has raised skepticism regarding claims made by President Trump that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had committed to stop purchasing Russian crude oil.

The US President's Statements and New Delhi's Reaction

On Wednesday, Donald Trump claimed that Modi had given him assurances “this very day” that the Indian government would discontinue its acquisition of Russian oil.

“I was displeased that the Indian administration was buying oil, and he [Modi] has guaranteed me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. You know, it cannot happen instantly. There is a procedural aspect, but the process is going to be completed shortly,” the former president informed reporters.

Nevertheless, in a media conference on the following day, representatives from India appeared to undermine the US president’s account, stating that there was “no phone call between PM Modi and President Trump the previous day”.

Context of India-Russia Ties and Crude Purchases

India, which upholds a close ties with the Kremlin, has emerged as one of the largest 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, since the US president was unable to achieve a peace deal with Moscow.

• During the summer, the US president enforced some of his highest tariffs on the Indian economy to sanction its procurement of Russian crude.
• Trump alleged Delhi of contributing funds to Moscow's military actions in the conflict zone.
• India is facing extra import duties of 25%, in addition to a base of a quarter.

India's Position and Energy Strategy

The Indian administration has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not allow the US dictate its energy needs or interfere in its relationship with the Russian Federation, which dates back to the Cold War era.

Russia remains the largest supplier of arms to India.

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

A statement by the foreign ministry said the priority was to “protect the well-being of the Indian consumer in a unstable fuel market” and that all strategies were dictated by the necessity to diversify and secure India’s energy sources.

Benefits and Consequences

India has reaped significant benefit from its purchase of cut-price Russian oil since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, establishing itself as one of its leading buyers globally, second only to China.

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

The White House has frequently alleged Delhi of financing the Kremlin leader, President Putin's actions against Ukraine, labeling the war as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

Yet, on that same day the American leader spoke glowingly of Modi. “Modi is a great man. He has affection for me,” he remarked.