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Indian authorities have expressed skepticism regarding assertions made by Donald Trump that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had committed to cease purchasing Russian oil.

Trump's Claims and New Delhi's Response

On Wednesday, Donald Trump stated that Prime Minister Modi had assured him “today” that the Indian government would put an end to its acquisition of Russian oil.

“I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he [Modi] has assured me today that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. Understandably, you can’t do it immediately. It’s a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be completed shortly,” the former president informed reporters.

Nevertheless, in a press briefing on the following day, Indian officials appeared to undermine the American leader's version, stating that there was “no telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Trump the previous day”.

Context of India-Russia Relations and Oil Purchases

India, which upholds a strong relationship with the Kremlin, has become one of the biggest purchasers of Russian crude since the military action of Ukraine.

This has become a major point of dispute with Washington in recent months, since Trump failed to secure a ceasefire agreement with Moscow.

• During the summer, the US president enforced some of his highest tariffs on the Indian economy to penalise its purchase of Russian oil.
• He accused the Indian government of helping to finance Moscow's military actions in Ukraine.
• The country is subject to additional 25% import tariffs, on top of a base of a quarter.

India's Position and Oil Policy

The Indian administration has publicly stood firm, asserting it would not allow the United States dictate its energy needs or interfere in its partnership with the Russian Federation, which originates from the Cold War era.

Moscow remains the largest supplier of military equipment to the Indian armed forces.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Indian government said negotiations with the US over commerce and import duties were ongoing.

A official communication by the foreign ministry said the priority was to “protect the well-being of the citizens of India in a volatile energy scenario” and that all strategies were dictated by the imperative to diversify and secure the nation's fuel supply.

Benefits and Repercussions

The Indian economy has gained substantial advantages from its acquisition of cut-price Russian oil since Russia's extensive military campaign of its neighbor in February 2022, establishing itself as one of its leading buyers globally, second only to China.

Nonetheless, it has led to a severe deterioration in US-India relations.

US administration has frequently alleged Delhi of bankrolling the Russian president, Vladimir Putin’s actions against Ukraine, labeling the war as “Modi’s war”.

Yet, on that same day the US president spoke glowingly of Modi. “Modi is a great man. He loves Trump,” he remarked.