Trump Repeats Claim That India Won’t Buy Russian Oil, Despite MEA Clarification

Former US President Donald Trump has once again claimed that India will stop buying oil from Russia if he returns to power, despite India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier clarifying that such remarks are incorrect. His statement, made during a campaign event, reignited conversations about India’s independent energy policy and its balanced diplomatic stance amid global tensions.

Trump’s claim that he would “make India stop buying oil from Russia” comes at a time when India has repeatedly emphasized that its energy purchases are driven by national interest and affordability. Over the past two years, India has become one of the biggest buyers of discounted Russian crude following the Western sanctions on Moscow after the Ukraine war. Officials in New Delhi have consistently maintained that the country’s energy security decisions are not influenced by external pressure.

Experts say Trump’s comments appear to be politically motivated, aimed at portraying a tougher global stance ahead of the US elections. However, policy analysts note that India’s oil procurement strategy is unlikely to change based on foreign political rhetoric. The government has been clear that as a developing economy, it needs affordable energy sources to sustain growth, especially when global crude prices fluctuate sharply.

India’s relationship with both the United States and Russia remains complex but pragmatic. While Washington remains a key strategic and defense partner, Moscow continues to be a major energy and defense supplier. New Delhi has often balanced its diplomacy by maintaining open channels with both sides, a position that has earned it recognition as a country capable of independent foreign policy decisions.

Economists point out that India’s imports from Russia have helped stabilize domestic fuel prices and inflation levels, offering some relief to consumers. Any sudden disruption in this supply could directly impact the Indian economy. Therefore, policymakers are expected to continue prioritizing national interests over geopolitical narratives.

In essence, Trump’s statement might serve as campaign rhetoric, but for India, the focus remains on maintaining affordable, stable energy supplies. Regardless of political claims made abroad, New Delhi’s oil strategy will continue to be shaped by what best serves its economic and strategic goals.