Donald Trump Claims PM Modi Promised to Halt Russian Oil Imports — Praises India as a ‘Reliable Partner’
In a new twist to global energy politics, former U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would soon stop importing oil from Russia. Trump’s statement has sparked widespread debate about the future of India-U.S. relations, especially against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in Ukraine and global energy realignments.
Trump’s Bold Claim: “Modi Said India Will Stop Buying Russian Oil”
Speaking at an event in Washington alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, Trump shared details of his recent interaction with PM Modi. Referring to Modi as a “friend”, Trump said their bond remains strong and continues to shape global diplomatic conversations.
“He’s assured me there will be no oil purchased from Russia,” Trump said. “Of course, it’s not something that can be done overnight — it’s a process — but that process is now coming to an end.”
Trump’s remarks come at a time when his views on international trade and energy dependency continue to influence U.S. foreign policy debates. His comments also revived memories of his previous administration’s strict measures against Moscow and efforts to isolate Russia economically after its invasion of Ukraine.
“India Is a Reliable Partner,” Trump Reaffirms
When asked by ANI whether he considers India a trustworthy ally, Trump responded without hesitation.
“Yeah, sure. He’s (PM Modi) a friend of mine. We have a great relationship. I wasn’t happy that India was buying oil, but he assured me today they won’t be buying from Russia. That’s a big stop. Now we need China to do the same.”
The former President praised Modi’s leadership, describing him as a visionary who has maintained India’s growth and stability.
“He’s a friend of mine. We’ve known each other for a long time, and I have a lot of respect for him,” Trump added.
Trump’s Sharp Words on India’s Past Oil Imports from Russia
During his remarks, Trump didn’t hold back from criticizing India’s earlier purchases of Russian crude oil, directly linking them to the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war.
“We were not happy with him buying oil from Russia because that allows Russia to continue this ridiculous war — a war where they’ve lost a million and a half people, mostly soldiers,” Trump said.
He further called the conflict “a tragedy that should never have happened,” adding that it was an “unnecessary war” that dragged on much longer than it should have.
“Russia should have won in the first week, but now it’s going into the fourth year. I want it to stop,” Trump stated firmly.
“Modi Is a Great Man,” Says Trump After Recent US-India Talks
Commenting on the latest diplomatic meeting between PM Modi and US ambassador-designate Sergio Gor, Trump had nothing but praise for the Indian leader.
“I think they were great. Modi is a great man. Sergio told me Modi loves Trump. I’ve watched India for years — it’s an incredible country. For decades, leaders would come and go, but Modi has brought stability and growth,” Trump remarked.
His statements reaffirm the personal rapport between the two leaders — a relationship that has often influenced the tone of India-U.S. engagement in recent years.
The Bigger Picture: Energy, Diplomacy, and Global Strategy
Trump’s comments once again highlight the complex balance India maintains between its long-standing ties with Russia and its expanding partnership with the United States. As Washington continues to pressure nations to reduce economic dependence on Moscow, India’s energy choices remain a focal point in global diplomacy.
While there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government regarding Trump’s claim, his remarks are expected to spark fresh discussion in policy circles about India’s oil strategy, foreign relations, and the future of U.S.-India cooperation under shifting global power dynamics.
