US former President Donald Trump stated on 15th October 2025 that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him that India would stop purchasing oil from Russia. Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with India’s continued oil imports from Russia, which he believes have indirectly supported Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He described Modi’s assurance as “a big step” toward isolating Moscow and emphasized that the next target is persuading China to follow suit.
Trump criticized both India and China for continuing to buy Russian oil, calling them “primary funders” of Russia’s military operations in Ukraine. He reiterated that halting these purchases is crucial to exert economic pressure on Moscow and curb the ongoing conflict.
While Trump confirmed Modi’s assurance, the Indian government has not publicly commented on the statement. India has previously defended its stance, arguing that it is balancing its energy security needs with global geopolitical concerns. The US has also previously imposed tariffs on Indian imports, including a 25% levy in August 2025, citing concerns over Russian oil purchases.
Experts note that India has become a major buyer of Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began, largely due to competitive pricing and energy security considerations. Any decision to reduce or halt such imports could have implications for India’s domestic energy market and global oil trade dynamics.
Trump’s remarks underscore the ongoing tension between energy security priorities and geopolitical pressures, highlighting the complex balancing act countries like India must navigate amid the Russia-Ukraine war.
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