Moscow: Moscow has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent claim that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop purchasing oil from Russia, saying such decisions rest entirely with New Delhi.
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov said Russia does not interfere in other countries’ sovereign choices and underlined that its oil supplies have been extremely beneficial for India’s economy. He described the partnership as one built on mutual benefit and long-term trust, rather than short-term politics.
Trump’s remark came during an address earlier this week, where he stated that Modi had promised to halt Russian oil imports “soon.” The claim stirred a flurry of diplomatic reactions, with Russia quickly reaffirming that its trade with India remains strong and rooted in strategic cooperation.
The Kremlin has also voiced confidence that its energy partnership with India will continue, despite U.S. pressure. Russian officials said they would rely on official statements from India and China regarding their oil trade decisions rather than political comments from abroad.
India, for its part, has not issued a direct confirmation or denial of Trump’s statement. However, government sources have reiterated that India’s energy policy is guided by national interest, focusing on ensuring price stability and energy security amid global volatility.
New Delhi continues to balance its relationships with both Washington and Moscow. While India has increased talks with the United States over expanding imports of American oil and gas, it has also maintained that Russian crude offers competitive pricing and stability for domestic consumers.
The issue comes at a sensitive moment in U.S.–India relations. Washington recently imposed 50 percent tariffs on several Indian goods in response to what it views as India’s reluctance to scale down energy imports from Russia. Analysts say the move is part of a broader diplomatic and trade standoff that has tested India’s policy of strategic autonomy.
Despite these tensions, both India and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strong ties. Recent meetings between Prime Minister Modi and President Vladimir Putin have emphasized cooperation in energy, defense, and technology.
Moscow has also proposed expanding joint energy projects, including ventures in resource-rich regions such as the Arctic.
For now, India appears to be adopting a gradual approach diversifying its energy sources while keeping its long-standing relationship with Russia intact. As global energy politics evolve, New Delhi’s balancing act between major powers is likely to remain one of its most challenging diplomatic tasks in the months ahead.