Trump asserted that India would stop buying Russian oil, claiming New Delhi had already reduced imports, while contrasting Hungary’s reliance on Russian crude due to infrastructure limits. Speaking at the White House with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, he framed India’s de-escalation as a key step in his strategy to end the Ukraine war through diplomacy and tariffs, contingent on NATO members cutting Russian energy purchases.
Trump expressed understanding toward Hungary, noting its single inland pipeline and logistical challenges, and said he plans to meet Putin in Budapest. He also reiterated a personal rapport with PM Modi, describing him as a close partner despite disagreements on energy policy.
The US President’s claims about Modi’s assurances were contradicted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs, which stated that no phone conversation had occurred between the two leaders on the dates referenced. The MEA emphasized that no official dialogue took place regarding Russia's oil imports.
Trump additionally indicated that persuading China to reduce Russian oil purchases would follow India’s example, portraying a broader plan to isolate Moscow economically. His comments highlight ongoing US pressure on energy-importing nations amid the war in Ukraine, though they reflect discrepancies between US statements and Indian government records.
