Washington, Oct. 16: U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has informed him of India’s decision to halt oil imports from Russia — a move Trump described as a “big step” toward isolating Moscow economically.
Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said, “I think they were great… Modi is a great man. He (Sergio Gor) told me that he (PM Modi) loves Trump. I’ve watched India for years — it’s an incredible country. For so long, leaders would come and go every few months. But my friend Modi has been there for a long time, and he’s assured me there will be no oil purchases from Russia. He can’t do it immediately, but it’s happening.”
The President’s remarks came in response to a question from ANI regarding the recent meeting between U.S. Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor and Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi.
Trump further emphasized that ending India’s energy dependence on Russia would significantly strengthen global pressure on Moscow.
“All we want from President Putin is to stop — stop killing Ukrainians and Russians. The hatred between Putin and Zelenskyy is an obstacle, but I think we’ll get them. If India doesn’t buy oil, it makes things much easier. They will not buy oil from Russia and will return after the war is over,” he said.
Gor, who recently concluded a visit to India, described his engagements with Indian leaders as “constructive and forward-looking.”
“It’s an honour and a privilege to be here. We had excellent meetings with Foreign Secretary Misri, External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. We also had an incredible meeting with Prime Minister Modi, where we discussed key bilateral issues, including defence, trade, and technology,” Gor said.
As of Thursday, New Delhi has not issued any official response to President Trump’s statements.
This is not the first time Trump has made such claims. In the past, similar assertions were officially denied by India.
In August, Trump announced a 50% tariff on Indian oil imports from Russia, followed by an additional 25% duty on other Indian exports, deepening trade tensions between the two nations. The measures came amid Trump’s warning that trade negotiations with India would remain suspended until New Delhi’s “energy alignment” with Moscow was resolved.
When asked if he expected progress in trade talks after imposing tariffs, Trump replied, “No, not until we get it resolved.”
Despite mounting U.S. pressure, India has maintained that its energy decisions are driven solely by national interest and affordability, asserting that it would continue sourcing oil based on “best available rates and logistics.”
While Washington insists its actions are aimed at compelling Moscow to negotiate peace with Kyiv, India remains the second-largest buyer of Russian crude, citing its need to secure stable and affordable energy supplies.
According to Bloomberg, Russia’s Urals grade crude has been offered at deeper discounts in recent weeks — about $2.50 per barrel for cargoes loading in late September and October, compared to $1 per barrel in July.
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