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Indian authorities have expressed doubts regarding assertions made by Donald Trump that PM Modi had agreed to stop purchasing Russian crude oil.

The US President's Claims and India's Response

On Wednesday, Trump stated that Modi had assured him “today” that the Indian government would put an end to its purchase of Russian oil.

“I was displeased that the Indian administration was buying oil, and he [Modi] has assured me today that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. You know, it cannot happen instantly. It’s a little bit of a process, but the transition is going to be completed shortly,” Trump informed reporters.

Nevertheless, in a press briefing on Thursday, Indian officials appeared to undermine the US president’s account, clarifying that there was “no phone call between PM Modi and President Trump the previous day”.

Background of Indo-Russian Relations and Oil Acquisitions

The South Asian nation, which upholds a strong relationship with the Kremlin, has become one of the largest buyers of Russian oil since the military action of the Eastern European country.

It has been a significant source of contention with the United States in recent months, after Trump was unable to achieve a peace deal with Moscow.

• In August, the US president imposed some of his highest tariffs on the Indian economy to sanction its procurement of Russian oil.
• He accused Delhi of contributing funds to Moscow's military actions in the conflict zone.
• The country is subject to extra import duties of 25%, on top of a base of 25%.

New Delhi's Position and Energy Strategy

India has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not let the US determine its energy needs or meddle in its relationship with the Russian Federation, which originates from the cold war.

Moscow continues to be the largest supplier of military equipment to the Indian armed forces.

Just before Trump's remarks, the Indian government said discussions with the United States over trade and import duties were ongoing.

A statement by the foreign ministry said the priority was to “protect the interests of the Indian consumer in a unstable fuel market” and that all strategies were guided by the necessity to broaden and secure the nation's fuel supply.

Advantages and Repercussions

India has reaped significant benefit from its purchase of discounted Russian oil since Russia's extensive military campaign of Ukraine in early 2022, establishing itself as one of its leading buyers worldwide, second only to China.

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

US administration has increasingly sought to accuse Indian leadership of financing the Russian president, Vladimir Putin’s actions against Ukraine, labeling the war as “the Indian PM's conflict”.

Yet, on Wednesday the US president praised enthusiastically of the Indian prime minister. “Modi is a great man. He has affection for me,” he said.