Trump Claims India to Curb Russian Oil Imports Amid US-India Negotiations

US President Donald Trump reiterated discussions with PM Modi on India's Russian oil imports, emphasizing their strategic relationship. Trump asserts India is scaling back on Russian oil, a move backed by Modi. Meanwhile, India maintains its energy choices are driven by national interests and consumer needs.

US President Donald Trump has once again stated that he discussed India's Russian oil imports with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday after Diwali celebrations at the Oval Office, Trump emphasized that the two countries are negotiating 'some great deals' and highlighted a strong relationship with Modi.

Trump remarked, 'I love the people of India. We're working on great deals between our countries. I spoke to Prime Minister Modi today, and we maintain a very good relationship. Modi assured me they won’t buy much oil from Russia, as he wants the war between Russia and Ukraine to end as much as I do.' Modi acknowledged the call but did not reference oil purchases.

Earlier, Trump claimed India had significantly reduced its oil imports from Russia, stating they will stop altogether, in line with geopolitical pressure to limit energy ties with Moscow amidst the Ukraine conflict. India's response highlighted its energy sourcing is guided by national interests, even as Trump urges a complete cessation of Russian oil imports.