On October 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India would stop buying oil from Russia. Trump clarified that India could not halt imports immediately, calling it “a little bit of a process,” but said the change would happen “within a short period of time.” He also indicated that after India, the U.S. would press China to make a similar commitment
India’s Response & Reaction
- As of now, the Indian government has not confirmed Trump’s claim. The Indian Embassy in Washington has not issued a statement validating the pledge.
- India’s foreign ministry emphasized its priorities are energy security and stable prices, without commenting directly on Trump’s statement.
- Some Indian refiners are reportedly preparing to reduce Russian oil imports gradually, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Context & Background
- India is one of the largest buyers of Russian crude, drawing from deep discounts offered by Russia after Western sanctions.
- Trump had previously imposed tariffs on Indian goods — including a 50% tariff — citing India’s continued purchases of Russian oil as a justification.
- The tension over oil imports is part of a larger U.S.–India trade and diplomatic dispute in 2025.
Market & Energy Impacts
- Following Trump’s remarks, oil prices rose ~1%, as markets viewed India halting purchases as reducing demand for Russian crude. Reuters
- Analysts note that if India backs away from Russian oil, it could significantly affect Russia’s export volumes and pricing dynamics.
- Russia has voiced confidence that its energy partnership with India will continue, dismissing Trump’s claim as unlikely to disrupt the existing trade ties.
Challenges & Skepticism
- Such a shift is complex. India has long defended its energy purchase strategy as vital to ensuring affordable, stable supplies for its growing economy.
- Stopping Russian oil abruptly may strain India’s import budgets, push up costs, or force tradeoffs in supply sources.
- Skeptics point out that making commitments in diplomatic talk is easier than executing them—especially given contracts, logistics, and long-term supply agreements.
What This Means Going Forward
- Watch if India makes official statements or clarifications in coming days.
- See how refiners, importers and state energy agencies respond—whether they begin planning for alternative sources.
- Monitor global oil markets for volatility, especially relating to Russian crude flows.
- This could become a flashpoint in U.S.–India diplomacy, testing whether India will align more closely with U.S. pressure on Russia.
