The BRICS TimesDonald Trump’s assertion that India would stop buying oil from Russia has sparked a massive political controversy in India. Rahul Gandhi slammed PM Modi, questioning if the PM authorized Trump to declare India’s policy decisions. India has not yet issued any official response to Trump’s dramatic claims.
Trump’s Oil Claim Ignites Political Row
US President Donald Trump’s statement has fueled a major political controversy. This row impacts India-US relations and India’s foreign policy stance. Trump claimed at the White House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him of a halt.
This halt concerns India’s purchase of crude oil from Russia. Following this claim, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi fiercely attacked PM Modi. Gandhi suggested PM Modi appeared “scared” of Trump. The Congress leader also alleged that foreign policy was being “outsourced.”
Concerns Over Russian Oil Imports
Speaking at the White House on Wednesday, Donald Trump raised concerns. He spoke about India’s imports of Russian crude oil with PM Modi.
Trump then stated: “He (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) assured me today that they will not buy oil from Russia. This is a huge step.”
He suggested India’s decision would set an example for China. China, he added, should seriously consider this move. The US argues that these oil purchases financially aid Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“Our Relationship is Very Good”
Trump referred to PM Modi as his “friend.” He stated, “Our relationship is very good.” He acknowledged that stopping oil purchases would take time. However, he stressed the process would be completed soon.
“They can’t stop immediately, but the process is underway and will end soon,” he said. India has provided no official confirmation regarding Trump’s significant claim.
China Needs to Follow Suit
Trump further commented on Beijing’s role. He said, “Now we have to get China to do the same thing.” He suggested pressuring Beijing is “relatively easier” compared to last week’s Middle East actions.
Rahul Gandhi Attacks PM
Rahul Gandhi took to X (formerly Twitter) to critique PM Modi following Trump’s statement. He posted, “PM Modi is scared of Trump.” Gandhi further wrote that PM Modi “allowed Trump to take and declare India’s decision” to cease Russian oil purchases.
The Congress leader also highlighted the alleged cancellation of the Finance Minister’s US trip. This was despite PM Modi continuing to send greetings after repeated slights from Trump.
Rahul Gandhi also claimed the PM did not oppose Trump’s stance on ‘Operation Sindoor’.
Akshay Didwaniya
