Repeats ‘spoke to PM Modi’ claim
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US President again claims PM Modi assured him India would stop Russian oil imports
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New Delhi denies conversation took place
US President Donald Trump has reignited tensions with India, warning that New Delhi could face “massive tariffs” if it continues to import oil from Russia. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump repeated his earlier assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally told him India would halt crude purchases from Moscow, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
India swiftly rejected Trump’s claim, clarifying that its energy imports are guided solely by national interest and consumer needs.
- Trump told ,“I spoke with Prime Minister Modi of India, and he said he’s not going to be doing the Russian oil thing”
- When journalists pointed out that India’s government had no record of such a conversation, Trump responded, “If they want to say that, then they’ll just continue to pay massive tariffs, and they don’t want to do that.”
The remark adds to Washington’s pressure campaign on nations still buying Russian energy, which the US argues helps fund Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine.
India pushes back firmly
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed Trump’s remarks, reiterating that India’s energy policy prioritises affordability and security for its citizens.
“India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
He added that India remains committed to ensuring stable prices and reliable energy supplies through diversified sourcing: “Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.”
Tariff tensions rise
Earlier this year, the Trump administration raised import duties to 50 percent, affecting key Indian exports including textiles, pharmaceuticals, and machinery. Analysts warn that escalating tariff threats could strain trade ties further between Washington and New Delhi, which have already been tested by energy, defense, and tech policy disagreements.
Despite the friction, Indian officials noted that bilateral discussions on energy cooperation remain ongoing, and the US has shown interest in strengthening its role as a major supplier of crude and LNG to India.
As both nations navigate a delicate balance between strategic autonomy and partnership, New Delhi appears resolute in protecting its economic interests amid growing global pressures.
