U.S. President Donald Trump has re-claimed that India will cease purchasing oil from Russia, claiming New Delhi has already scaled back imports amid U.S. pressure. This comes as Washington doubles tariffs on Indian goods, including a specific tax on Russian crude, straining bilateral ties and prompting India’s diversification of energy sources.
Quick Insights
- Trump Claim: India curbed Russian oil buys under U.S. pressure.
- India Reply: Denied, citing market-based diversification.
- Trade Tension: Tariffs strain Indo-U.S. ties.
- Political Angle: Disputes rise ahead of elections.
Trump’s Assertions and India’s response
During a media interaction with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump stated that India has “de-escalated” and “more or less stopped” buying Russian oil, representing about 38% of its imports. He cited personal assurances from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
India, however, has countered that it is “broad-basing and diversifying” its energy sourcing based on market conditions, rejecting the tariffs as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” This reflects ongoing U.S. efforts to curb what it sees as indirect support for Russia’s war in Ukraine through oil purchases.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
Trump also claimed credit for mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, asserting it prevented a nuclear clash. India disputes this, noting the agreement resulted from direct military talks following its Operation Sindoor in response to a terror attack. These developments highlight tensions in Indo-U.S. relations, with India’s energy shifts potentially aligning with Western sanctions while balancing its strategic interests. As elections approach in both nations, trade and security issues could redefine their partnership.
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