A fresh wave of diplomatic and political controversy has erupted following repeated claims by US President Donald Trump that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would significantly cut its imports of Russian crude oil.
While PM Modi warmly acknowledged Trump’s Diwali greetings, his silence on the sensitive oil import issue has sparked intense debate and criticism from opposition leaders and analysts.
Speaking at the White House’s Diwali celebrations, Trump said, “I spoke to Prime Minister Modi today… he’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see the war end with Russia-Ukraine. They’ve cut it way back and are continuing to cut it way back.”
This marks the fourth time in under a week that Trump has publicly referenced India’s dealings with Russian oil, drawing global attention as he prepares for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has firmly denied any such assurances were made, reiterating that the country’s energy policy is driven by national interests and the imperative to protect consumers amid volatile global markets.
Responding to US President in a measured way, PM Modi expressed gratitude for Trump’s warm wishes on social media, reinforcing the strong ties between the two democracies. “Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms,” Modi wrote.
Yet, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh seized on the discord between the two leaders’ narratives, accusing the government of evasiveness.
“While Mr. Modi conceals, Mr. Trump reveals,” Ramesh commented on X, questioning why the Prime Minister has not directly addressed Trump’s claims.
“Why is Modi hiding behind the External Affairs Ministry and asking officers to respond” he asked, highlighting concerns about transparency in India’s foreign policy and energy strategy.
The controversy underscores India’s delicate balancing act on the global stage.
Since Western sanctions on Russia following the 2022 Ukraine invasion, India has boosted its imports of discounted Russian crude to secure affordable energy for its 1.4 billion citizens.
Simultaneously, India has enhanced energy cooperation with the US, signaling a desire to diversify sources without alienating any key partner. Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov weighed in, affirming Russia’s respect for India’s sovereign decisions and emphasizing the benefits that Russian oil supplies bring to India’s economy. As the Modi government faces mounting pressure for clarity, the unfolding episode reveals the intricate dance of diplomacy, economic imperatives, and geopolitical realities. The Modi-Trump exchange, framed by festive greetings, offers a revealing glimpse into India’s evolving role in the complex global energy and political landscape.