Trump Reacts to Reports of India Ending Russian Oil Purchases, MEA Issues Clarification
Donald Trump praises unverified claims of India ending Russian oil purchases as tariffs on India take effect. MEA issues sharp clarification.
Trump Hails Rumors of India Halting Russian Oil; MEA Reaffirms Energy Independence
U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday welcomed reports that India had stopped importing Russian oil, calling it a “good step.” However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) quickly clarified that it had no information confirming such a move and reiterated that India’s energy decisions are guided by market forces and national interests.
🇺🇸 Trump’s Remarks
“I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia. That’s what I heard, I don’t know if that’s right or not. That is a good step. We will see what happens,” Trump told reporters.
His remarks came shortly after his administration announced 25% tariffs on Indian imports, with warnings of additional penalties over India’s continued trade with Russia for crude oil and arms.
Earlier this week, Trump had also taken a swipe at India while announcing a new oil deal with Pakistan. “We are in the process of choosing the Oil Company that will lead this Partnership. Who knows, maybe they’ll be selling Oil to India some day!” he quipped.
🇮🇳 India’s Response
The MEA dismissed speculation, underlining that India’s energy partnerships are independent of third‑party pressure.
“Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country. India and Russia have a steady and time-tested partnership,” the ministry said in a statement on Friday.
Officials emphasized that India continues to secure oil supplies based on affordability and availability, rather than political considerations.
⚖️ Strategic Context
The controversy comes as India balances its long-standing strategic and economic ties with Russia with growing friction in its trade relations with the United States. Russia has been one of India’s largest oil suppliers since 2022, especially after Western sanctions limited Moscow’s other export markets.
Trump’s tariffs and remarks add fresh strain to U.S.-India trade ties, which had only recently shown signs of recovery. Analysts say New Delhi is unlikely to abruptly cut oil imports from Russia given the impact on energy security and domestic fuel prices.
