PM Modi Stands Firm as Trump Pressures India Over Russian Oil Imports

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a strong stance against growing pressure from US President Donald Trump over India’s continued purchase of Russian oil. Speaking at a rally in Uttar Pradesh, PM Modi reiterated his call to prioritize local goods and shield national interests amid global instability.

No Halt to Russian Oil Imports — Yet

Despite Trump's warning and the imposition of 25% tariffs on Indian exports, the Modi administration has not issued any directive to Indian refiners to stop purchasing Russian crude. Government sources told Bloomberg that oil buying decisions remain commercial and that both public and private refiners are free to procure from any source.

India, now one of the largest importers of Russian seaborne crude, has rapidly scaled up purchases, taking advantage of discounted prices. These imports currently account for nearly one-third of India’s total crude oil supply.

Modi Defiant: “Buy Indian”

Highlighting economic uncertainty, PM Modi urged Indians to support domestic production.

“The global economy is surrounded by uncertainty. From now on, we will only buy what is made with the sweat and toil of Indians,” he said.

The Prime Minister’s statement comes as the Trump administration steps up efforts to isolate Russia economically over the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump criticized India for its BRICS alignment and continued relationship with Moscow, claiming, “They can take their dead economies down together.”

Trump Team Talks Tough

Stephen Miller, President Trump's deputy chief of staff, accused India of imposing excessive tariffs on US products, “cheating” the immigration system, and matching China’s oil imports from Russia.

“We must get real about financing this war,” Miller said, adding that all options remain on the table — diplomatic, financial, and otherwise.

While Trump recently claimed India had agreed to stop Russian oil imports, Indian officials told The New York Times that crude buying will continue despite US threats. Bloomberg reported that refiners have been asked to draft contingency plans in case Russian oil becomes unavailable, but no definitive decision has been made.

India Stresses “Time-Tested” Russia Ties

India’s Foreign Ministry has defended its longstanding ties with Russia.

“Our bilateral relationships stand on their own merit and shouldn’t be judged through the lens of a third country,” said spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.

India has historically relied on Russia for defense supplies and maintains that its strategic autonomy remains intact. The government expects US trade negotiators to visit later this month for talks on a bilateral deal, but it remains firm on not opening its dairy and agriculture sectors due to domestic sensitivities.

‘Make in India’ Gains New Relevance

PM Modi’s call for economic self-reliance is a reiteration of his signature Make in India push — now being revived with greater urgency following the US tariff hikes.

“Protecting our farmers, small industries, and youth employment is our top priority,” the PM said at the rally.

As the geopolitical tug-of-war between the US, Russia, and China intensifies, India appears determined to chart its own course, balancing economic needs with global diplomatic pressures.