PM Modi Stands Firm as Trump Pressures India Over Russian Oil
In response to growing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a strong stand, making it clear that India will continue buying oil from Russia based on its own national interests.
Even though the U.S. has warned of high tariffs and penalties on countries that continue to trade with Russia, India has not stopped its oil imports. In fact, no official order has been given to Indian companies—whether government-owned or private—to stop buying Russian crude oil.
Modi recently urged Indians to support the “Make in India” initiative, promoting self-reliance and national pride. His message seems to be not just about products, but also about India’s right to make its own foreign and energy policies.
The U.S. recently imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and is considering more severe trade actions. This is part of Trump’s wider strategy to punish countries that continue economic ties with Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine war.
India imports around one-third of its oil from Russia. If it stops this trade, it could face an additional cost of ₹75,000–90,000 crore ($9–11 billion) annually, which would increase fuel prices and inflation in the country.
A top Trump advisor even accused India of “funding Russia’s war” by buying its oil, placing India alongside China as a major Russian energy customer. But India has made it clear it will take decisions based on its own economic and energy needs—not foreign pressure.
At the same time, India continues to value its relationship with the United States. But it will not compromise its energy security or economy under outside influence.