Trump Claims Modi Agrees to Halt Russian Oil Imports, Signaling Shift in U.S.-India Relations

President Donald TRUMP announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has committed to ending oil purchases from Russia, marking a potential turning point in bilateral relations. "I was not happy that India was buying oil, and Narendra Modi assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. The statement, if confirmed, would represent a significant diplomatic shift amid ongoing trade tensions.

The U.S. imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods earlier this year after trade negotiations collapsed, prompting protests from New Delhi over unequal treatment compared to other Russian oil buyers like China and Turkey. Trump acknowledged the transition away from Russian crude won't be immediate but expressed confidence in Modi's cooperation, stating, "Modi is a great man, he loves Trump." The two leaders are set to meet later this month at the Southeast Asia Summit in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned China could face steeper tariffs if Europe joins the oil boycott effort, accusing Beijing of "fueling the Russian war machine." Trump urged China to follow India's example as the WHITE House continues to pressure global powers to isolate Russia economically.