US President Donald Trump praised India’s cooperation on reducing Russian oil imports, describing it as a “big thing” during remarks at the White House. He highlighted that nearly 40 per cent of India’s crude imports currently come from Russia, underscoring the significance of Delhi’s gradual phase-out plan. Trump said the reduction would be substantial but gradual, aimed at maintaining stability in global energy markets. “India, as you know, told me that they would stop. It is a process; you can't just stop it. But by the end of the year, they will be down to almost nothing. That's a big thing,” he stated, emphasizing the personal assurance he received from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Trump’s comments reflect a softer tone toward India, contrasting with his earlier criticism over New Delhi’s energy ties with Moscow. He noted that his conversations with Modi, including one during Diwali, largely centered on trade, with Modi expressing hope for continued collaboration between the two democracies. India has been great. Spoke to Prime Minister Modi yesterday, and they have been absolutely great,” Trump remarked, reinforcing the cooperative tenor. He stressed that the phase-out would be managed carefully to avoid disruption in global markets but expressed confidence it would be completed by the end of the year.
The announcement comes amid ongoing US efforts to pressure countries away from Russian oil. Earlier, Trump had warned India that continued imports would incur tariffs, noting that the United States had already imposed a 50 per cent levy on certain Indian goods. He suggested that if India persisted with Russian oil purchases, it would face “massive tariffs,” but he believes Delhi is committed to ending such imports.
India’s stance has been driven by the need to secure affordable and stable energy supplies for its rapidly growing population, even as international scrutiny mounts over its ties with Russia. The US Treasury’s sanctions on Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil form part of a broader Washington strategy to curtail Kremlin funding, and Trump’s statements signal alignment with that policy while simultaneously acknowledging India’s gradual compliance.
By highlighting India’s progress and Modi’s assurances, Trump framed the energy shift as a positive step for both bilateral relations and global market stability. The remarks also signal a nuanced approach, balancing the US push against Russian energy reliance with recognition of India’s domestic energy priorities. Observers note that this cautious optimism from Trump may help ease tensions between Washington and New Delhi while maintaining pressure on Moscow.
