India Responds to Trump’s Claim That PM Modi Promised to Stop Buying Russian Oil

 🇮🇳 India Rejects Trump’s Russian Oil Claim, Emphasizes “National Interest”

New Delhi:

India has responded firmly yet cautiously to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to stop buying Russian oil, saying the country’s energy policy is guided solely by national interest and consumer security.

In his recent statement, Trump claimed that PM Modi “assured” him India would phase out its purchase of Russian crude “within a short period of time.” The remarks, made during a political rally in the United States, quickly gained global attention and stirred diplomatic discussion.

However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not confirmed any such assurance.

MEA Clarifies India’s Stand

According to the MEA’s official spokesperson, India’s priority remains to safeguard the interests of Indian consumers and maintain energy stability.

“India’s energy purchases are guided entirely by national interest and the twin goals of ensuring stable prices and secure supplies,” the MEA said in a statement.
“We will continue to diversify our energy sources and act in line with our economic and strategic priorities.”

The ministry’s response highlights India’s position of strategic autonomy — asserting that its oil import decisions will not be dictated by external pressures.

Energy Policy Based on Diversification

India is the world’s third-largest oil importer, sourcing crude from multiple countries to meet its growing domestic demand.
Over the past two years, Russian oil has accounted for a significant share of India’s total imports, as Moscow offered discounts amid Western sanctions.

Officials reiterated that India will diversify its energy imports as markets evolve but will make such decisions independently.

Russia and the U.S. React

Moscow’s Response

The Russian government said it respects India’s sovereign energy decisions and values the “trust-based energy partnership” between the two nations.A spokesperson added that Russian oil remains vital for India’s energy security and industrial growth.

U.S. Position

The U.S. has long encouraged India to reduce its dependence on Russian energy. Following Trump’s remarks, U.S. officials reiterated their interest in expanding energy cooperation with India, including LNG and renewable sources.

Conclusion

India’s response sends a clear message: its energy policy will remain independent, driven by economic and national priorities, not external claims or pressures.As the global energy landscape evolves, India continues to pursue a balanced and diversified approach, ensuring its citizens benefit from stable and affordable energy.