Trump’s Claim: Did Modi Promise to Cut Russian Oil?

In a surprising twist that could stir global political and energy circles, President Donald Trump has claimed that India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him of reducing oil imports from Russia. The remark, made during a press briefing in Washington, instantly grabbed headlines and caused ripples in diplomatic and economic discussions across both nations.

Trump’s statement, described by some commentators as a “diplomatic bombshell,” raises questions about India’s foreign policy choices, its stance on the Ukraine conflict, and the country’s booming energy trade with Russia.

During an interaction with reporters at the White House, President Trump was asked about his administration’s relationship with New Delhi since returning to office in January 2025. In his characteristic, direct style, Trump said, “Prime Minister Modi gave me his word that India would reconsider its reliance on Russian crude. He said they would look at alternatives, especially American energy.”

This statement, while not yet verified by Indian officials, suggests potential behind-the-scenes negotiations between Washington and New Delhi concerning oil imports, defence collaborations, and broader trade partnerships.

The comment caught New Delhi by surprise. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has yet to issue an official response, though senior government sources told reporters that “India’s energy security decisions are guided solely by national interest.”

In recent years, India has become one of the biggest buyers of discounted Russian oil. Following Western sanctions on Moscow after the Ukraine invasion, Russia began offering crude to friendly partners, often at cheaper rates.

India, heavily dependent on imported oil to meet its energy demands, took advantage of these offers to stabilise fuel prices for its population. Analysts note that nearly 40 per cent of India’s crude imports in early 2025 came from Russia, up from just 2 per cent before the Ukraine war.

Trump’s revelation, if true, could signify a major shift in this arrangement. Washington has repeatedly urged allies, including India, to reduce energy trade with Moscow, calling it “indirect support to Russia’s war machine.”

Since resuming the presidency, Trump has focused on rebuilding America’s energy dominance through new export deals. Analysts believe his comment regarding Modi may have been part of a broader strategy to promote U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) and crude oil exports to Asian markets.

A senior White House advisor told journalists that the administration seeks to “expand clean and reliable energy partnerships with democratic allies like India.” This aligns with Trump’s vision of reshaping global supply chains and reducing dependency on adversarial nations.

Across social media platforms, Trump’s comment drew mixed responses. Some Indian commentators viewed it as a diplomatic pressure tactic, while others saw it as a possible indication of India’s willingness to rebalance ties between Washington and Moscow.

Political experts in Delhi, however, cautioned against reading too much into the claim. Strategic analyst Dr. Meera Krishnan said, “Indian policy doesn’t change overnight. While Trump may have had a conversation with Modi about energy diversification, decisions of this scale are made gradually.”

Meanwhile, in Moscow, Russian news outlets reacted cautiously. One Russian diplomat reportedly called the statement “political theatrics,” adding that “Russia continues to be a trusted energy partner for India.”

If India indeed promises a reduction in Russian oil imports, this could significantly affect global oil prices and diplomatic relations. Energy experts say that such a move could push India closer to the U.S. in trade, defence, and technology cooperation.

However, it could also risk tension with Russia, a longstanding defence ally and strategic partner to New Delhi for decades. In the complex web of global geopolitics, balancing these relationships remains one of India’s biggest diplomatic challenges.

Ultimately, without a formal statement from the Indian government, Trump’s claim remains unconfirmed. Yet, it highlights the growing pressure on India to navigate global expectations while safeguarding its energy needs and independent policy stance. President Trump’s “Modi promise” remark may or may not reflect an actual policy shift, but it certainly underscores the fragile balance in India’s global diplomacy. With Washington pushing for reduced Russian oil ties and Moscow offering competitive energy deals, India’s next move will be pivotal—not just for energy markets but for the future of international alliances.

As the world watches, one thing is certain: when Trump speaks, the world listens, and this time, the echoes of his words have travelled far beyond Washington’s walls.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies