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Indian authorities have expressed skepticism regarding assertions made by Donald Trump that PM Modi had committed to cease purchasing Russian crude oil.

Trump's Claims and New Delhi's Reaction

On Wednesday, Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Modi had assured him “today” that the Indian government would discontinue its acquisition of Russian oil.

“I was not happy that India was purchasing crude, and he [Modi] has guaranteed me on this day that they will cease purchasing oil from Russia. You know, you can’t do it immediately. There is a procedural aspect, but the process is going to be over with soon,” Trump informed reporters.

Nevertheless, in a press briefing on Thursday, Indian officials seemed to contradict the American leader's version, stating that there was “no telephonic conversation between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump yesterday”.

Context of Indo-Russian Ties and Oil Purchases

The South Asian nation, which maintains a strong relationship with the Russian government, has become one of the biggest buyers of Russian crude since the military action of the Eastern European country.

It has been a significant source of contention with Washington in recent months, since the US president was unable to achieve a peace deal with Russia.

• In August, the US president imposed significant import duties on the Indian economy to penalise its procurement of Russian crude.
• He accused the Indian government of contributing funds to Moscow's military actions in the conflict zone.
• India is subject to extra import duties of 25%, on top of a standard of a quarter.

New Delhi's Position and Energy Policy

India has consistently maintained its position, claiming it would not allow the US determine its energy needs or meddle in its partnership with the Russian Federation, which originates from the cold war.

Moscow remains the primary source of arms to the Indian armed forces.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Indian government said negotiations with the US over trade and tariffs were ongoing.

A official communication by the Indian ministry of external affairs said the main goal was to “safeguard the well-being of the citizens of India in a volatile energy scenario” and that all strategies were dictated by the necessity to broaden and secure India’s energy sources.

Advantages and Consequences

The Indian economy has reaped significant benefit from its purchase of cut-price Russian oil since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor in February 2022, establishing itself as one of its leading buyers globally, second only to the Chinese market.

However, it has resulted in a severe deterioration in bilateral ties between Washington and New Delhi.

US administration has increasingly sought to accuse Indian leadership of financing the Kremlin leader, President Putin's operations against the Ukrainian state, describing the war as “Modi’s war”.

Yet, on Wednesday the American leader praised enthusiastically of the Indian prime minister. “Modi is a great man. He loves Trump,” he said.