India-Russia Energy Cooperation: Trump’s Claim Denied
Amid global diplomatic tensions and concerns over energy security, U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks have triggered strong reactions from both Russia and India. Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India would soon stop buying oil from Russia. However, Moscow dismissed the statement as false and misleading, while New Delhi reiterated that its energy policy is entirely based on national interests and highlighted the importance of India-Russia energy cooperation in ensuring long-term stability and strategic partnership.
Trump’s Statement at the White House: Claims ‘India Will Change Its Policy’
During an interaction with reporters at the White House, President Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had personally assured him that India had begun working to end its oil purchases from Russia. Trump said the process might not be immediate but India would gradually move towards alternative energy sources. He also added that the U.S. expects China to take similar steps so that Russia’s energy revenues come under economic pressure.
According to Trump, India’s move could significantly impact Russia’s economy, which has remained relatively stable since the Ukraine war despite Western sanctions, primarily due to its energy exports. His remarks come at a time when Washington is reportedly preparing to further tighten economic sanctions on Moscow.
Russia’s Response: “False and Irresponsible Claims”
Reacting sharply, Russia said no third country could influence the energy cooperation between India and Russia. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova and Russia’s Ambassador to India Denis Alipov jointly stated that the energy partnership between the two nations is “long-term, dependable, and mutually beneficial.”
Ambassador Alipov told the media in New Delhi, “Russian oil is meeting the real needs of the Indian economy and forms a crucial part of India’s energy security. We are keen to deepen this cooperation further. India is a sovereign nation that determines its own energy policy.”
Moscow also sent a clear message to Washington, asserting that the U.S. has no right to comment on or dictate the energy policy of any other country. Russia said such statements go against the spirit of international cooperation.
India’s Firm Stand: “We Will Not Yield to External Pressure”
The Indian government promptly responded to Trump’s remarks, stating that its energy policy is guided solely by domestic needs and public welfare. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jha said India’s energy decisions are independent and not influenced by any foreign pressure.
He stated, “The primary objective of India’s energy procurement policy is to ensure stable and affordable energy for consumers. Our partnerships with other countries are based purely on economic and strategic considerations.”
India reiterated that oil imports from Russia remain an essential part of its strategic energy security. In the current global uncertainty, the country is diversifying its energy sources to strengthen self-reliance. Officials further said that despite international pressure, oil deals with Russia are vital for the domestic economy and will not be halted.
Questioning U.S. and Western Policy
Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war, the U.S. and European countries have imposed sanctions on Russian oil and gas imports, claiming it would weaken Moscow’s ability to fund the war. However, Asian nations like India and China have continued to buy Russian oil at discounted rates, providing Moscow significant economic relief.
Analysts believe Trump’s remarks reflect Washington’s broader effort to push other countries to scale back relations with Russia. However, India has consistently maintained a pragmatic approach, insisting that its decisions are based on national interest alone.
Russia–India Energy Partnership
The energy partnership between Russia and India dates back decades. From the Soviet era to the present, the two nations have maintained close cooperation in oil, natural gas, and defence sectors. In recent years, Russia has increased its supply of crude oil, coal, and LNG to India. Both nations are also exploring joint energy investments and long-term supply agreements in the Arctic region.
Since 2022, India’s oil imports from Russia have multiplied several times. Despite Western sanctions, Indian refiners have continued to purchase Russian crude at lower prices, helping the country keep energy costs under control and stabilise inflation.
Strategic Outlook: India’s Balancing Act
India currently follows a balanced foreign policy approach on the global stage. While the U.S. remains a strategic partner — especially through QUAD and the Indo-Pacific initiatives — Russia continues to be a traditional ally, fulfilling India’s key defence and energy requirements.
Diplomatic experts believe Trump’s remarks may be an attempt to create a new form of pressure on India. However, New Delhi’s stance is clear — it will not align exclusively with any camp but will continue to make decisions based on the principle of “India First.”
Renewed Assurance of Trust Between Russia and India
Russia has asserted that its energy cooperation with India will continue to strengthen. Moscow indicated that both nations are planning major partnerships in the oil and gas sectors in the coming months. Experts suggest that India is considering investments in Russia’s “Eastern Arctic Projects,” while new collaborations are being explored in LNG terminals and transport infrastructure.
India, on its part, is also working on alternative payment mechanisms — such as trade in rupees and yuan — to ensure continued energy trade with Russia despite Western financial restrictions.
Conclusion
Though Trump’s remarks briefly captured global headlines, both Russia and India have made it clear that their India-Russia energy cooperation is driven not by diplomacy but by long-term economic realities. India has once again conveyed to the world that its energy policy is centred on its people and development priorities — not shaped by any other nation’s political agenda.
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