US President Donald Trump said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised to halt India’s oil imports from Russia, a move Trump described as a “big step” toward economically isolating Moscow.
India has been one of the largest buyers of Russian crude since Western nations imposed sanctions following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Speaking at a White House event, Trump said, “I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same.”
Trump also urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war, saying, “All we want is for Putin to stop killing Ukrainians and Russians. If India stops buying oil, it makes things much easier.”
New Delhi hasn’t yet issued an official response, but if confirmed, Trump’s statement signals a major shift in India’s energy strategy.
Trump noted that Modi couldn’t end Russian oil imports “immediately” but said “the process will be over soon.” He praised Modi as “a great man” and said U.S. ambassador-designate Sergio Gor had recently met the Indian leader.
The remarks come amid earlier U.S. tariffs on Indian exports, which Washington linked to New Delhi’s continued oil trade with Moscow. India, however, has consistently defended its energy decisions as based on domestic needs, not political alignment, maintaining a balance between its long-standing ties with Russia and growing partnership with the U.S.
