Government Stands Firm On Russian Oil, Trump Warns Of More Pressure On India

Key Highlights:

- PM Modi refuses to halt Russian oil imports despite US pressure.

- Trump criticizes India over trade, BRICS ties, and immigration.

- India stresses its economic independence and “Make in India” push.

New Delhi: Government of India has made it clear that India will not stop buying oil from Russia, despite increasing pressure from US President Donald Trump. This comes after the US imposed 25 percent tariffs on Indian exports and warned of more action if India continues its oil trade with Russia.

India government has not issued any instructions to stop oil imports from Russia. According to sources familiar with the matter, both state-run and private oil refiners are free to buy crude oil from sources they choose, and no decision has been made to change this policy.

Modi Calls for Self-Reliance Amid Global Uncertainty

Speaking at a rally at Varaansi in Uttar Pradesh over the weekend, Modi said the world is facing economic instability. He called on Indians to buy local products, highlighting his long-running “Make in India” campaign.

“Whatever we buy, it should be made by the sweat of an Indian,” Modi said, adding that India’s economic interests must come first in these uncertain times.

Trump Raises Heat, Accuses India on Multiple Fronts

President Trump has criticized India sharply for maintaining close ties with Russia and being part of BRICS, calling the group a collection of “dead economies.” He also accused India of imposing high tariffs on US goods and cheating the US immigration system.

Trump’s deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, said on Sunday that while Trump wants a “tremendous relationship” with India, the US needs to “get real” about countries financing the war in Ukraine. He added that “all options are on the table”, including diplomatic and financial actions.

India Refuses to Back Down

India has become the biggest buyer of Russian seaborne crude oil, benefiting from discounted prices. Reports suggest that India may be working on alternate supply plans only as a backup, not as a shift away from Russian oil.

The Indian Foreign Ministry defended ties with Russia, calling it a “time-tested partnership.” Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India’s relationships with other countries are based on mutual merit, and not influenced by third parties.

Talks with US to Continue

Despite rising tensions, US trade negotiators are expected to visit India later this month to continue talks on a bilateral trade deal. However, Indian officials said the country will not open its dairy and agriculture sectors, citing political and cultural reasons.