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

The US President's Claims and New Delhi's Response

On Wednesday, Trump stated that Prime Minister Modi had given him assurances “today” that India would discontinue its purchase of Russian oil.

“I was displeased that India was buying oil, and he [Modi] has guaranteed me today that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. You know, it cannot happen instantly. There is a procedural aspect, but the process is going to be over with soon,” Trump informed reporters.

Nevertheless, in a press briefing on Thursday, Indian officials appeared to undermine the US president’s account, clarifying that there was “no phone call between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump yesterday”.

Background of India-Russia Ties and Oil Acquisitions

India, which maintains a strong relationship with the Russian government, has become one of the biggest purchasers of Russian crude since the invasion of the Eastern European country.

This has become a major point of dispute with the United States in recent months, after Trump failed to secure a ceasefire agreement with Moscow.

• During the summer, the American leader enforced significant import duties on the Indian economy to sanction its procurement of Russian oil.
• He accused the Indian government of contributing funds to Russia’s aggression in the conflict zone.
• The country is subject to additional 25% import tariffs, in addition to a base of a quarter.

India's Position and Energy Policy

India has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not allow the United States determine its energy needs or interfere in its relationship with Russia, which dates back to the Cold War era.

Russia continues to be the primary source of arms to India.

Just before Trump's remarks, the Indian government said negotiations with the US over commerce and import duties were still in progress.

A statement by the foreign ministry said the main goal was to “protect the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario” and that all policies were guided by the imperative to diversify and ensure India’s energy sources.

Benefits and Repercussions

India has reaped significant benefit from its purchase of cut-price Russian oil since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, becoming one of its leading buyers globally, only behind China.

Nonetheless, it has led to a significant decline in bilateral ties between Washington and New Delhi.

US administration has frequently alleged Delhi of bankrolling the Kremlin leader, President Putin's operations against Ukraine, labeling the conflict as “Modi’s war”.

However, on that same day the American leader spoke glowingly of the Indian prime minister. “The PM is an exceptional leader. He loves Trump,” he remarked.