Trump and Modi's Trade and Energy Talks: A Geopolitical Chess Move

U.S. President Donald Trump discussed trade and energy matters with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing India's purchase of Russian oil and their implications on global peace efforts. Trump seeks to leverage trade policies to influence India's energy decisions amidst tensions involving Russia and Ukraine.

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a significant conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, primarily focusing on trade matters. 'We talked about a lot of things, but mostly the world of trade,' Trump reported to journalists gathered in the Oval Office.

In addition to trade, energy was a notable topic during their dialogue. Trump disclosed that Modi assured him of India's plans to limit its oil purchases from Russia. 'He's not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see that war end as much as I do,' Trump asserted.

The context of these discussions is crucial, as India and China rank among the leading buyers of Russian seaborne crude. Trump has been imposing tariffs on Indian exports to the U.S. as a strategic measure to deter India's energy deals with Russia and pressure Moscow towards peace negotiations in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)