NEW DELHI: India is unlikely to alter its oil import strategy in response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent warning over continued crude purchases from Russia. Top government officials have made it clear that the decision will hinge solely on economic considerations and consumer interests.
“We will go solely by the interest of our consumers and opt for the best option price-wise. If Russian crude works out cheaper than what we can get from other sources, why should we penalise our consumers?” said a senior government official, suggesting India may even explore deeper discounts from Moscow in light of Trump’s remarks.
Doval Visit May Offer Strategic Clarity
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is expected to travel to Russia starting Tuesday. Sources say the visit will offer clarity on India’s navigation of the current geo-economic trilemma — balancing strategic autonomy, affordable energy access, and growing global scrutiny.
So far, the Centre has made no effort to reduce Indian refiners’ reliance on discounted Russian crude. The imports have helped contain domestic fuel prices and indirectly benefited Europe, which continues to import diesel and jet fuel refined in India using Russian oil.
Business Circles Back Government’s Stance
Industry and trade bodies in New Delhi have echoed the government’s disapproval of Trump’s latest rhetoric.
“India’s oil trade with Russia has been transparent and carried out with a broad understanding with the U.S.,” said the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) in a statement.
“One of the key reasons India ramped up Russian oil imports was to help stabilise global markets after Western sanctions disrupted supply chains. Trump’s tariff threat over this ignores market realities, misrepresents trade data, and undermines a vital Indo-Pacific partnership.”
Ironically, Trump’s warning comes even as India’s crude oil imports from Russia dropped by nearly 10% in May, falling to $9.2 billion — a dip attributed to simple market dynamics, not political pressure.
Fallout May Extend to Other Sectors
Trump’s remarks may also cause unease among American businesses. Indian exporters, particularly in the apparel and consumer goods sectors, are in talks with U.S. buyers for Christmas season shipments. The uncertainty could complicate those negotiations.
Trump’s broader trade stance, especially his repeated — and now disproven — claims about India lowering tariffs on U.S. agricultural products, has added strain. India’s refusal to permit genetically modified corn and soybeans and its rebuttal of Trump’s claim of brokering a ceasefire during Operation Sindoor have reportedly frustrated the former president.
During ongoing trade discussions, Indian negotiators had signalled a willingness to expand imports of American oil, gas, fertilisers, and defence equipment — all aimed at addressing the trade imbalance, which currently tilts in India’s favour. However, Trump’s tariff threats risk derailing that tentative progress.
