Trump Claims Modi Pledged to Halt Russian Oil Imports

President Donald Trump claimed on October 15, 2025, that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop purchasing oil from Russia to increase financial pressure on Moscow and end the war in Ukraine. Trump described the commitment as a "big step," though he acknowledged the transition would be a process. This announcement followed the U.S. imposition of punitive tariffs on Indian goods, reaching up to 50%, specifically to discourage Russian crude purchases.

The Ministry of External Affairs of India refuted the claims, stating it was unaware of any phone conversation between the two leaders on the date cited. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that the leaders last spoke on October 9 to discuss trade and the Gaza peace plan. The ministry emphasized that India's energy policies are guided by the priority of safeguarding domestic consumers and ensuring stable prices through diversified sourcing.

Russian officials, including Ambassador Denis Alipov, dismissed the U.S. claims, asserting that Russian energy remains the most cost-effective option for India. To incentivize continued trade, Russia highlighted deep defense ties, including potential cooperation on Su-57 fighter jets. Meanwhile, Indian opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, accused Modi of being "frightened of Trump" and outsourcing national decisions to Washington.

Beyond India, the Trump administration pressured Japan to cease Russian energy imports and threatened China with tariffs up to 500% if it continued purchasing Russian oil. China condemned these actions as "unilateral bullying and economic coercion." Despite the diplomatic friction, India continues to negotiate a bilateral trade deal with the U.S. and has indicated a willingness to increase American energy imports if prices remain competitive.