Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his claim that he “spoke to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi” and was assured that India will not be buying much oil from Russia. The remark, made during a public interaction in Washington, has drawn sharp attention in diplomatic and media circles though India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not confirmed any such conversation.
The statement comes at a time when the global oil market remains volatile amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the U.S. continues to push major buyers like India to reduce energy imports from Moscow.
Trump’s Claim: “PM Modi Told Me He Won’t Buy Much Russian Oil”
Speaking to supporters during a community event, Trump said, “I spoke to your Prime Minister today. We had a very good conversation about trade and energy. He said they (India) won’t be buying much oil from Russia.” He further added,
“PM Modi is a terrific guy, a friend of mine. He wants peace, and he wants this war (Russia-Ukraine) to end just like I do.”
The comments were made as Trump continues to campaign for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, where his foreign policy approach especially toward India, China, and Russia has become a major talking point.
India Yet to Confirm Any Such Conversation
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has not confirmed or commented on Trump’s claim. Officials clarified that no recent phone call between Prime Minister Modi and Donald Trump has been recorded in official diplomatic channels.
Sources within India’s foreign policy establishment have reiterated that New Delhi’s oil import decisions are guided purely by national interest and market realities, not by political pressure.
“India’s energy policy is independent and based on the needs of Indian consumers,” said an MEA official when asked about Trump’s latest statement.
The Background: Why Russian Oil Is a Sensitive Issue
Since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war, India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian crude oil. Western countries, including the United States, have expressed concern that such purchases indirectly fund Russia’s war effort.
However, India has consistently defended its stand:
- It buys oil “wherever it gets the best deal” to protect its citizens from high fuel prices.
- Energy security remains India’s top priority.
- India’s total oil imports from Russia, while significant, are still a fraction of global Russian exports.
The U.S. has occasionally raised the issue at diplomatic forums, urging India to “diversify its energy sources”.
Political Timing: Trump’s Statement Amid Election Campaign
Observers believe Trump’s remarks are not just about oil they are part of a larger election strategy.
By projecting close ties with PM Modi, Trump aims to appeal to the Indian-American community, one of the fastest-growing and politically influential voter groups in the U.S.
Political analysts also note that this is not the first time Trump has made such claims. During his presidency, he often cited his personal “great friendship” with PM Modi, describing him as “a strong leader doing a tremendous job for India.”
Diplomatic Ripples: India Balances Between Washington and Moscow
The timing of Trump’s comment is crucial. India has maintained a careful balance between its relationships with the U.S. and Russia:
- With Russia, India shares long-standing defense and energy ties.
- With the U.S., cooperation has deepened in areas such as technology, defense, and trade.
India’s challenge lies in protecting its strategic autonomy ensuring that no single international partner dictates its foreign or economic policy.
Experts suggest that Trump’s statement could complicate this balance by forcing India to respond to a conversation that may never have taken place.
Analysts React: “Trump’s Claim May Be Political, Not Policy-Based”
Foreign policy analysts have expressed skepticism about Trump’s comments.
Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Wilson Center, noted: “Trump is known for making off-the-cuff remarks that often blend personal anecdotes with political messaging. India is unlikely to change its oil policy based on such statements.” C. Raja Mohan, an Indian foreign policy commentator, added:
“India will continue to act in its own national interest. Trump’s claim might serve his election narrative more than it reflects any real diplomatic exchange.”
U.S.–India Trade and Energy Tensions
Trump’s statement also comes days after he vowed to maintain ‘massive tariffs’ on India until it reduced imports of Russian oil a comment that stirred economic debates on both sides.
According to Reuters, Trump said he would “keep strong tariffs on Indian goods” if India continued to buy Russian oil, suggesting a tougher trade policy if he returns to office.
This stance contrasts with the Biden administration’s current diplomatic engagement, which has largely avoided public criticism of India’s oil purchases.
How India’s Oil Policy Actually Works
India imports over 85% of its crude oil, making energy affordability a key concern. The government uses a diversified sourcing strategy, purchasing oil from the Middle East, the U.S., Africa — and increasingly, from Russia.
When Western nations imposed sanctions on Russian oil, India took advantage of heavily discounted rates, which helped reduce inflation and stabilize fuel prices.
A senior Indian economist explained: “For a developing country like India, energy security cannot be compromised. Russian oil provides an affordable and stable option.” Thus, even if India reduces imports in the future, it is expected to do so gradually, without disrupting domestic supply chains.
Possible Global Impact
If India does decide to reduce Russian oil purchases, the consequences could be significant:
- Russia would lose one of its key Asian buyers.
- Global oil prices could rise if the market perceives lower demand for Russian crude.
- India’s import bills might increase, potentially impacting inflation.
- U.S.–India relations could strengthen further if Washington views the move as political alignment.
However, analysts caution that nothing concrete has been announced yet, and India’s actual oil trade data will reveal whether Trump’s claim has any factual basis.
At present, Trump’s claim that PM Modi promised to reduce oil imports from Russia remains unverified and politically charged.
While it has sparked headlines, the Indian government maintains strategic silence, focusing instead on energy security and national interest.
If true, it could mark a major shift in India’s foreign policy and global energy markets. But if not, it serves as yet another example of how political rhetoric during election season can echo loudly in international diplomacy.
For now, the world watches as India continues to walk a fine line balancing affordability, autonomy, and alliances in a rapidly changing global order.