Story perspectives

India Denies Trump’s Claim on Russian Oil Ban

10/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia.
The MEA said there was no such conversation and that India’s energy policies prioritize consumers and economic stability.
India continues to import significant Russian oil and is diversifying its energy sources.
Opposition leaders criticized Modi for allegedly allowing Trump to dictate India’s oil policy.

History

Historical Context

Since the early 2000s, India and Russia have strengthened their energy partnership, highlighted by India's 2018 import of 15 million tons of crude oil from Russia. This collaboration, rooted in a strategic partnership established in 2000, has intensified amid Western sanctions on Russia, with India becoming a major buyer of discounted Russian oil, reflecting its commitment to energy security and economic stability.

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Story summary

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia.
The MEA said there was no such conversation and that India’s energy policies prioritize consumers and economic stability.
India continues to import significant Russian oil and is diversifying its energy sources.
Opposition leaders criticized Modi for allegedly allowing Trump to dictate India’s oil policy.

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