U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured him that India will halt Russian Oil Imports, though the process may take some time. The announcement comes amid rising global attention on India Russian oil imports and Washington’s efforts to curb Moscow’s energy revenues amid the war in Ukraine. While addressing the press conference in the oval office he said that “Prime Minister Modi assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big stop,” Trump said during a press briefing at the Oval Office. He added, “Now we’ve got to get China to do the same thing.”
The U.S. president reiterated Washington’s dissatisfaction with New Delhi’s continued purchase of Russian crude, noting that it helps Moscow sustain what he called its “ridiculous war” in Ukraine. However, he clarified that India’s move to halt Russian oil imports will not be immediate and will follow “a little bit of a process,” without giving a clear timeline. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said that the country’s oil import decisions are based on protecting consumers and ensuring energy security.
India’s imports of Russian crude oil have long been a sensitive topic in U.S.-India relations. In August, Trump imposed additional tariffs of 25% on Indian goods, raising the total to 50%, further straining trade ties between the two nations.
“If India doesn’t buy Russian oil, it makes ending the war much easier,” Trump said, adding that New Delhi assured him it would resume trade with Russia only after peace is restored. The latest developments underscore the complex geopolitical balance India maintains — seeking to uphold energy affordability and national interest, while navigating strategic partnerships with both Washington and Moscow.