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Congress Slams Modi Over Trump's Oil Import Claims

10/22/2025

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

India's Congress party criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims about India's oil imports from Russia.
Trump said Modi assured him India would reduce imports to help end the Russia-Ukraine war, the fourth such assertion in six days.
Modi acknowledged Trump's Diwali greetings but did not confirm any oil discussions.
The Indian foreign ministry has not provided new comments on Trump's assertions.

History

Historical Context

Since the 2000 Strategic Partnership, India and Russia have deepened ties, particularly in energy. By 2024, India became the largest importer of Russian oil, accounting for 35-40% of its imports. Amid U.S. sanctions following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, India's $15 billion oil trade with Russia has drawn scrutiny, reflecting ongoing geopolitical complexities and India's balancing act between major powers.

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Story summary

India's Congress party criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not addressing U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims about India's oil imports from Russia.
Trump said Modi assured him India would reduce imports to help end the Russia-Ukraine war, the fourth such assertion in six days.
Modi acknowledged Trump's Diwali greetings but did not confirm any oil discussions.
The Indian foreign ministry has not provided new comments on Trump's assertions.

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