India Questions Trump’s Claim: Will Modi Really Halt Russian Oil Purchases?

India’s foreign ministry has cast doubt on a claim by former US President Donald Trump. He stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil. Trump’s comments came as part of the US push to increase economic pressure on Russia over its invasion of Ukraine.

When questioned about the supposed phone call, an Indian spokesman said he wasn’t aware of any conversation happening the day before. India had earlier said discussions with the US about its oil purchases were still ongoing.

India has become a major consumer of Russian energy since the war in Ukraine began. This helps Russia offset losses from countries like the US and EU that have cut imports. In fact, India is now the second-largest buyer of Russian oil, right behind China.

Trump has been vocal about wanting India to halt its support for Russia’s energy market, aiming to isolate the Kremlin. During a speech at the White House, he claimed Modi assured him that India would stop oil purchases soon. However, the Indian government responded by emphasizing its need to protect its consumers in a volatile energy market, indicating that its import decisions focus on national interests.

While initial statements didn’t outright deny Trump’s account, the latest response introduces uncertainty about any agreements between India and the US. The relationship between the two countries is under strain due to India’s continued reliance on discounted Russian oil.

Experts suggest that India’s stance can be seen as pragmatic. With ongoing trade in energy between Russia and Europe, Prime Minister Modi’s government has pointed out what they consider hypocrisy from Western nations. It remains clear that energy needs drive India’s foreign policy choices.

According to recent data, India’s Nayara Energy Limited imported around 100 million barrels of Russian crude oil worth over $5 billion in just the past year. The UK government has responded with sanctions, specifically targeting Indian companies involved in facilitating Russian oil trade, highlighting the global impact of this ongoing situation.

For more information on international energy trade and sanctions, you can see the latest updates from trusted sources like the BBC or Reuters.

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