WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI: US President Donald Trump on Friday reiterated his claim that “India won’t be buying Russian oil”, a statement refuted by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which clarified there has been no recent communication between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, Trump said, “India won’t be buying Russian oil anymore.” The remark comes as Trump continues to push for tariffs to limit Russia’s ability to fund its war in Ukraine through oil exports. He, however, appeared to make an exception for Hungary, saying the country was “stuck” with its long-standing oil pipeline and geographical constraints.
Trump’s comments followed an MEA clarification that contradicted his claims. “There was no conversation or telephone call between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump. I am not aware of any conversation yesterday between the two leaders,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. He added that the last official communication between the two leaders took place on October 9, when Modi congratulated Trump on the success of his Gaza peace initiative and discussed trade progress.
During the same press briefing, Trump made a lighthearted remark about Zelenskyy’s outfit, saying, “I think he looks beautiful in his jacket… very stylish.”
Trump’s renewed statement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of India’s energy ties with Moscow. Despite Western sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, New Delhi has maintained that its oil imports from Russia are based on national interest and energy security needs.
India has repeatedly defended its position, asserting that its trade decisions are independent and aligned with the country’s long-term economic priorities.
