President Donald Trump has renewed his call for India to cease purchasing oil from Russia, citing the move as part of a broader strategy to increase economic pressure on Moscow during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Trump said he had received assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India would reduce its Russian oil imports “within a short period of time.” The statement, however, has added strain to already tense relations between Washington and New Delhi.
According to the administration, Russia’s oil exports to nations including China, India, and Turkey represent a significant share of its revenue. Trump has underscored the need to address India’s role in sustaining Russian energy income, framing it within a wider trade strategy. The Indian embassy has declined to comment on the matter.
In August, the United States imposed a 50% tariff on goods imported from India, including additional penalties on transactions linked to Russia. The tariffs are among the highest currently enforced by the U.S.
PM Modi has maintained that India remains neutral in the conflict, emphasizing the country’s continued economic cooperation with Russia alongside its diplomatic ties with the United States. Reports indicate that communication between Trump and Modi has been marked by disagreement in recent weeks.
The administration has also urged China and other major economies to scale back Russian oil imports in an effort to further weaken Russia’s financial position. India, one of the world’s largest economies, remains heavily dependent on Russian crude to meet its energy needs.
