US President Donald Trump has claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured him that India will gradually halt purchases of Russian oil, as part of Washington’s efforts to pressure Moscow over the war in Ukraine.
Trump told reporters that Modi had promised to stop buying Russian oil “within a short period of time,” describing it as a significant move. India, however, has maintained a cautious stance, citing the need to protect domestic consumers amid volatile energy prices. An Indian government spokesperson said discussions with the US are “ongoing” and emphasized that India’s import policies prioritize consumer interests.
Russia counts China, India, and Turkey among its largest oil customers, and Moscow continues to offer competitive pricing. Trump also indicated efforts to persuade China to reduce purchases of Russian oil. In response, a Chinese official highlighted that the country engages in “normal, legitimate economic, trade, and energy cooperation” with Russia.
The Trump administration has also targeted Japan, urging it to curb oil and gas imports from Russia. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent communicated these expectations to Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato.
Trump acknowledged that India cannot immediately end oil shipments, noting that the transition will take some time but will be completed soon. The US has imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods, partially in response to India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil and weapons, with a 25% levy specifically tied to transactions involving Russia.
Modi has repeatedly emphasized India’s neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine conflict despite longstanding ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin. In Moscow, Putin reiterated Russia’s strong oil production capabilities despite international sanctions and price caps imposed by the UK and EU, which have lowered Russian crude prices to $47.60 a barrel.
The dispute over Russian oil has been a point of tension between Trump and Modi, although Trump has praised Modi as a “great man,” and both leaders have discussed progress in trade negotiations.
