The BRICS TimesTrump’s repeated assertion about the end of India’s Russian oil purchases comes amid critical arms talks with Ukraine’s President Zelensky.
US President Repeats Oil Import Claim
US President Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Their meeting focused on crucial arms discussions concerning the war in Ukraine. During a private lunch, Trump reiterated his previous statement. He claimed that India would stop buying oil from Russia. “Well, India is not going to be buying Russian oil anymore,” the President stated. This was a direct repeat of an earlier oil claim.
Alleged Assurance from PM Modi
On Wednesday, President Trump spoke with White House reporters. He had previously claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi “assured” him regarding Russian oil. “I was not happy that India was buying oil,” Trump said. He added, “And he (Modi) assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big stop,” Trump further stated.
India Prioritizes Consumer Interests
New Delhi responded to the US President’s repeated claims. India stressed its government’s top priority. The primary goal is safeguarding Indian consumers in a volatile energy market. New Delhi said its energy import decisions “are guided entirely by this objective”.
The external affairs ministry issued a statement. It described India as a major importer of oil and gas. “It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective,” the statement confirmed. The ministry also underlined India’s “twin energy goals.” These goals include ensuring stable energy prices and secured supplies.
No Knowledge of Recent Modi-Trump Call
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the issue. He said he was “not aware” of any Wednesday phone call. The call allegedly occurred between Modi and Trump. “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,” he clarified.
Meanwhile, Trump has imposed significant 50 percent tariffs on India. This includes an extra 25 percent duty. These tariffs are due to India’s purchase of Russian oil.
