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

The US President's Statements and New Delhi's Reaction

On Wednesday, Trump claimed that Prime Minister Modi had given him assurances “today” that India would discontinue its acquisition of Russian oil.

“I was displeased that India was purchasing crude, and he [Modi] has assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. Understandably, it cannot happen instantly. There is a procedural aspect, but the transition is going to be completed shortly,” the former president told reporters.

However, in a media conference on the following day, representatives from India appeared to undermine the American leader's version, stating that there was “no phone call between PM Modi and President Trump the previous day”.

Background of India-Russia Ties and Oil Acquisitions

The South Asian nation, which maintains a strong relationship with the Russian government, has emerged as one of the biggest purchasers of Russian oil since the military action of Ukraine.

This has become a significant source of contention with Washington in recent months, after the US president was unable to achieve a peace deal with Russia.

• In August, the American leader imposed some of his highest tariffs on India to penalise its purchase of Russian oil.
• He accused Delhi of contributing funds to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
• India is facing extra import duties of 25%, in addition to a standard of a quarter.

India's Stance and Energy Strategy

The Indian administration has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not let the United States dictate its energy needs or meddle in its partnership with Russia, which originates from the cold war.

Russia remains the largest supplier of arms to India.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Indian government said negotiations with the United States over commerce and import duties were still in progress.

A statement by the Indian ministry of external affairs said the main goal was to “protect the interests of the citizens of India in a unstable fuel market” and that all strategies were dictated by the necessity to broaden and ensure India’s energy sources.

Benefits and Consequences

The Indian economy has reaped significant benefit from its acquisition of cut-price Russian oil since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, becoming one of its leading buyers worldwide, only behind China.

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

US administration has frequently alleged Delhi of financing the Russian president, Vladimir Putin’s operations against the Ukrainian state, describing the conflict as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

Yet, on Wednesday the American leader praised enthusiastically of Modi. “Modi is a great man. He has affection for me,” he said.