Trump Says Modi Agrees to Gradually Stop Buying Russian Oil

 

Trump Highlights India’s Commitment to Reduce Russian Oil Imports

US President Donald Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has agreed to gradually halt purchases of Russian oil. This move comes as part of Washington’s efforts to increase economic pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump described the decision as a “significant step” toward limiting Russia’s energy revenues.

Ongoing Discussions Between US and India

An Indian government spokesperson clarified that talks with the US are still ongoing. “The discussions aim to deepen energy cooperation while safeguarding Indian consumer interests amid a volatile global market,” the official said. India’s oil import policies remain guided by domestic priorities.


Russia’s Global Oil Market and Key Buyers

Russia counts China, India, and Turkey among its top oil customers. Trump expressed his intention to persuade China to follow a similar path to cut energy funding for Moscow. Meanwhile, China emphasized that its trade with Russia is legitimate and part of normal economic cooperation.

Russia Offers Competitive Oil Prices

The Kremlin highlighted that it can supply high-quality oil at lower prices. Russian officials warned that limiting access to Russian crude could violate free trade principles.


US Pushes Other Countries to Limit Russian Oil Imports

The Trump administration has also urged Japan to stop importing Russian oil and gas. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent discussed these expectations with Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato, emphasizing a coordinated effort to reduce Moscow’s energy revenues.

Gradual Transition for India

Trump acknowledged that India cannot immediately stop Russian oil shipments. He stated that the process will take some time but expects it to conclude soon.


US Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil

The US has imposed 50% tariffs on certain Indian goods, partly as a penalty for continuing purchases of Russian oil and weapons. These tariffs, effective since August, are among the highest globally and also include a 25% charge on transactions with Russia.

India Maintains Neutrality in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Prime Minister Modi has consistently maintained that India remains neutral in the Russia-Ukraine war, despite ongoing trade ties with Russia. The country relies on discounted Russian crude to meet energy demands and support its growing economy.


Putin Responds on Russia’s Oil Position

In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin asserted that Russia remains a leading global oil producer, despite international measures perceived as unfair competition.


International Measures to Cap Russian Oil Prices

The UK and EU recently lowered the price cap on Russian crude from $60 to $47.60 per barrel. These caps aim to reduce revenue flowing to Russia amid the war, a strategy initiated after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.


India Pushes Back Against US Criticism


Indian officials criticized Trump’s claim that Delhi profits from Russia’s war, calling it a double standard. India points out that trade with Russia continues in the US and Europe as well.


Modi-Trump Trade Talks Continue

Despite tensions over Russian oil, Trump praised Modi as a “great man.” Modi, in turn, stated that discussions with Trump reviewed the progress achieved in ongoing trade negotiations, signaling cooperation despite differences on energy policy.

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