India Rebuffs Trump’s Claim on Modi and Russian Oil
In a developments-filled week, India’s External Affairs Ministry (MEA) explicitly denied Donald Trump’s assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to halt imports of Russian oil. The clarification underscores New Delhi’s stance that its energy policy is driven by core national interests and consumer protection, rather than external pressure or unilateral assurances.
What Trump Claimed
During a recent public exchange, former U.S. president Donald Trump claimed that Modi assured him India would stop buying Russian oil, characterizing the pledge as “a big step” in pressuring Moscow amid the Ukraine crisis. Trump’s comments added a dramatic dimension to already tense geopolitical dynamics, prompting immediate scrutiny from India and its allies.
MEA’s Clear Denial
Responding to questions about whether Modi and Trump spoke by phone, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that he was not aware of any conversation between the two leaders on the referenced date. The ministry, speaking at its weekly briefing, reiterated a formal line: there was no confirmed telephonic discussion that would corroborate Trump’s claim.
“On the question of whether there was a conversation or a telephone call between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump, I am not aware of any conversation yesterday between the two leaders,” Jaiswal said, signaling a straightforward position from New Delhi.
India’s Stated Energy Policy
Beyond the misaligned narrative of a direct promise, the MEA emphasized that India’s energy policy is rooted in practical considerations that serve national interests. The ministry highlighted that India faces a volatile global energy market and has historically prioritized ensuring stable prices and secure supplies through diversified sourcing.
India remains a significant importer of oil and gas. In its public messaging, the MEA underscored a consistent objective: safeguard the Indian consumer while maintaining dependable access to global energy markets. The government stresses that import policies are crafted to weather price shocks and supply interruptions, rather than to fulfill external political expectations.
Context: Russia-Ukraine and Global Oil Politics
The broader geopolitical backdrop continues to influence energy diplomacy. Countries have faced intense scrutiny over their oil sourcing from Russia since the Ukraine conflict intensified Western sanctions. For India, which relies heavily on energy imports, diversification remains a critical strategy to maintain economic stability and energy security while navigating complex international pressures.
What This Means for India’s International Relations
India’s public stance is consistent with a cautious, sovereign approach to energy, trade, and security. While leaders may exchange assurances in private discussions, the MEA’s clarification signals that decisions about major oil purchases are guided by national interest and consumer welfare rather than external political endorsements.
Looking Forward
As global energy markets continue to evolve, India’s policy posture is likely to emphasize diversification of suppliers, hedging against price volatility, and maintaining a reliable energy mix for its vast economy. The country’s leadership appears prepared to engage with multiple partners while preserving autonomy over critical energy decisions.
In summary, while Trump’s remarks drew headlines, India’s government has reaffirmed its right to set energy policy based on domestic needs, free from any claimed telephonic commitments regarding Russian oil.
