Trump Warns India During Air Force One Briefing
US President Donald Trump again warned India against buying Russian oil. He said New Delhi would face “massive tariffs” if it kept importing crude from Moscow.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had spoken to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and received an assurance that India would reduce its Russian oil purchases.
“I spoke with Prime Minister Modi, and he said he’s not going to be doing the Russian oil thing,” Trump said. The remark came days after his earlier comments on the same issue.
Washington continues to pressure Moscow trade partners. US officials argue that revenue from Russian oil helps fund the war in Ukraine.
India Rejects Trump Claim Of Conversation
Soon after Trump warns India, New Delhi strongly denied the claim that Modi had spoken with the US President about oil imports. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said there was no such phone call between the two leaders.
“India decisions are based on national interest and consumer security,” an MEA spokesperson said. Officials explained that India would keep making independent energy choices that protect its citizens from high fuel prices.
Even after India denial, Trump repeated his threat. “If they want to deny it, then they’ll keep paying massive tariffs. And they don’t want that,” he said.
Trump Warns India: Tariffs Could Rise Further
Currently, the US imposes up to 50% tariffs on many Indian exports — some of the highest in the world. Washington also added a 25% penalty on trades linked to Russia energy sector.
Trump said those tariffs would stay or increase if India continued its Russian oil imports. Analysts say his warning shows Washington plan to tighten trade controls and influence India buying decisions.
Trade experts believe any rise in tariffs could affect India exports of steel, textiles, and pharmaceuticals to the United States — a key market for New Delhi.
India Reliance On Russian Oil Grows
Despite Trump warning, India reliance on Russian oil remains strong. Since the Ukraine war began in 2022, India has become the largest buyer of Russian seaborne crude, thanks to deep discounts offered by Moscow.
According to commodities tracker Kpler, India Russian oil imports are expected to rise 20% this month, reaching nearly 1.9 million barrels per day. This increase comes as Russia pushes exports after drone strikes damaged its refineries.
A White House official claimed India had reduced its Russian oil purchases by half. But Indian refiners said no major decline is visible yet, as shipments for November and December were already booked in advance.
India Balanced Foreign Policy Approach
When Trump warns India, New Delhi continues to balance its global partnerships. It maintains strong ties with both Washington and Moscow while ensuring affordable energy for its economy.
Indian officials have said repeatedly that buying oil from Russia does not violate any international sanctions. “Our policy is guided by energy security and national interest,” one official said.
Experts say India neutral stance allows it to benefit economically while staying diplomatically flexible. As tensions rise between the US and Russia, India ability to balance both sides will remain crucial in the months ahead.
Anjali is a news writer at Hindi News 99, covering India news, technology, Entertainment, and world updates. She delivers clear and engaging articles to keep readers informed with the latest trends.