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Indian authorities have expressed skepticism regarding claims made by President Trump that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop buying Russian oil.

The US President's Claims and New Delhi's Response

On Wednesday, Donald Trump stated that Modi had given him assurances “today” that India would discontinue its purchase of Russian oil.

“I was not happy that the Indian administration was buying oil, and he [Modi] has assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. You know, it cannot happen instantly. It’s a little bit of a process, but the process is going to be over with soon,” the former president informed reporters.

However, in a media conference on Thursday, representatives from India appeared to undermine the American leader's version, clarifying that there was “no telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump the previous day”.

Background of India-Russia Ties and Oil Acquisitions

India, which maintains a close ties with the Kremlin, has emerged as one of the biggest purchasers of Russian oil since the military action of the Eastern European country.

It has been a major point of dispute with the United States in recent months, after the US president was unable to achieve a ceasefire agreement with Russia.

• In August, the American leader imposed some of his highest tariffs on India to penalise its purchase of Russian oil.
• Trump alleged the Indian government of helping to finance Moscow's military actions in the conflict zone.
• India is facing extra import duties of 25%, in addition to a base of 25%.

India's Position and Energy Strategy

The Indian administration has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not allow the US dictate its energy needs or interfere in its partnership with the Russian Federation, which dates back to the Cold War era.

Moscow continues to be the primary source of military equipment to India.

Just before Trump's remarks, the Indian government said discussions with the US over commerce and tariffs were still in progress.

A official communication by the Indian ministry of external affairs said the main goal was to “safeguard the well-being of the Indian consumer in a unstable fuel market” and that all policies were guided by the imperative to diversify and ensure the nation's fuel supply.

Benefits and Consequences

India has reaped significant benefit from its acquisition of cut-price Russian oil since Russia's extensive military campaign of its neighbor in February 2022, becoming one of its leading buyers globally, second only to China.

However, it has resulted in a significant decline in bilateral ties between Washington and New Delhi.

The White House has frequently alleged Indian leadership of bankrolling the Russian president, Vladimir Putin’s actions against the Ukrainian state, describing the war as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

Yet, on Wednesday the US president praised enthusiastically of the Indian prime minister. “The PM is an exceptional leader. He has affection for me,” he said.