US President Donald Trump restated that India plans to reduce its purchases of Russian crude oil. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him during a recent phone call that Delhi “was not going to buy much oil from Russia” and that Modi “wants to see the war end with Russia and Ukraine.”
Modi acknowledged Trump’s call and extended Diwali greetings in a social media post but did not mention Russian oil. The Indian foreign ministry had earlier said it was “not aware” of any such call between the leaders and had no new comments on Trump’s latest remarks.
During Diwali celebrations at the White House, Trump emphasized the close relationship between the US and India, noting that Delhi had already “cut way back” on Russian oil imports and would continue to do so.
India became one of the main buyers of Russian crude after the Ukraine war began in 2022, benefiting from discounted prices while arguing that such purchases were essential for its energy security. Indian officials have also pointed out that Western countries, including the US, maintain various trade relations with Russia.
In recent months, Washington has accused India of indirectly supporting Moscow’s war efforts by continuing to buy Russian oil a claim that Delhi strongly denies. The Trump administration has responded by imposing 50% tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25% penalty linked to Russian oil purchases.
Despite tensions, the US president’s tone has become more conciliatory as trade talks between the two nations progress. Indian government officials confirmed that discussions are ongoing to deepen energy cooperation, and reports suggest India may agree to gradually scale back its imports of Russian crude as part of a broader trade agreement.
