New Delhi says safeguarding national interest remains top priority after Trump asserts Modi committed to halting Russian oil purchases amidst discussions on the india us tariff.
Washington / New Delhi, October 16, 2025: U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia. The Indian government, however, responded a day later, emphasizing that its energy policy is guided solely by national interest and strategic autonomy. (NDTV)
Moreover, understanding the implications of the india us tariff is crucial for India’s energy strategy moving forward.
“I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia,” Trump said during a press briefing in Washington. “That’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same thing.” (Bloomberg)
India’s Official Response: National Interest Comes First
Following Trump’s remarks, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that New Delhi’s decisions on crude oil imports are made with the “paramount objective of safeguarding the nation’s energy security.” (NDTV)
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “India’s energy purchases are guided by national interest. We source oil and gas from multiple suppliers, including Russia, based on commercial considerations and national priorities.” He declined to directly confirm whether such assurances were made to President Trump.
The statement signals India’s continued pursuit of strategic autonomy—balancing ties with major global powers while maintaining flexible energy partnerships.
Trump’s Assertion and the U.S. Pressure Campaign
Trump’s remarks are part of a broader diplomatic push to restrict Russia’s revenue streams from global oil sales. The U.S. has long urged countries like India and China to scale down purchases of discounted Russian crude. (Reuters)
“He can’t do it immediately; it’s a little bit of a process, but that process will be over soon,” Trump added, suggesting the phase-out would take time. (Politico)
The U.S. has tied the issue of energy imports to wider trade and defense cooperation, with Washington signaling that compliance could unlock incentives under future bilateral deals.
India’s Energy Landscape and Russian Oil Dependence
India currently imports about 20–25% of its crude oil from Russia, a figure that surged after Western sanctions following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. (Reuters) Russian suppliers have offered discounts of up to $10 per barrel, making them cost-effective for Indian refiners such as Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum.
Analysts note that India’s decision to maintain diversified sourcing has shielded the economy from price volatility. However, any abrupt policy shift could strain domestic fuel prices and increase import bills.
Strategic Balance Between Moscow and Washington
India has long maintained an independent stance in global conflicts, including the Ukraine crisis, urging dialogue while abstaining from taking sides. The Modi government has repeatedly emphasized that “energy security cannot be compromised.” (NDTV)
Political analysts in New Delhi view Trump’s claim as part of a diplomatic narrative aimed at projecting policy wins ahead of the U.S. elections, rather than a definitive shift in India’s position. “India will weigh every decision based on long-term interests, not external statements,” said international relations expert Professor Rajan Menon.
Market Reactions and Global Oil Implications
Following Trump’s comments, oil markets briefly fluctuated amid speculation that India—the third-largest crude importer—might reduce purchases from Russia. Brent crude dipped 1.3% in early trading before stabilizing. (Bloomberg)
Traders noted that while a reduction in Indian imports could tighten Moscow’s export options, it would also force India to seek more Middle Eastern and U.S. oil, potentially raising refining costs. India’s refinery sector, optimized for processing Russian Urals crude, may face transitional adjustments.
Diplomatic Outlook and Future Engagements
Despite the controversy, both Washington and New Delhi reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining “robust strategic cooperation.” Trump is expected to meet Prime Minister Modi again at the upcoming G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro next month.
Observers believe that India will continue balancing its relationships with the U.S. and Russia, ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies while strengthening defense and trade ties with Washington. Any major changes to its oil sourcing policy are likely to be gradual and data-driven rather than politically reactive.