Days after slapping high tariffs on India, US President Donald Trump told reporters on Friday that he had heard India had stopped buying oil from Russia. Speaking before leaving the White House for his weekend at Bedminster Golf Club in New Jersey, Trump said, “I understand India no longer is going to be buying oil from Russia. That’s what I heard. I don’t know if that’s right or not, but that’s a good step. We’ll see what happens.”

Trade Tensions Rise with New Tariff Announcement

Earlier in the week, Trump strongly criticized India’s trade policies. He accused New Delhi of engaging in “unfair trade practices,” especially by continuing to import large amounts of oil and military gear from Russia. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social on Wednesday, he announced, “INDIA WILL THEREFORE BE PAYING A TARIFF OF 25%, PLUS A PENALTY FOR THE ABOVE, STARTING ON AUGUST FIRST.”

However, he did not explain what the “penalty” would involve. Despite the harsh measures, Trump said he still considered India a “friend,” but was critical of the country’s high import tariffs and its close ties with Russia.
“India is our friend, we have, over the years, done relatively little business with them because their Tariffs are far too high, among the highest in the World,” Trump stated.

US-India Trade Numbers Reflect Strong Economic Ties

Despite Trump’s concerns, the trade relationship between India and the US has remained robust. In 2024, goods traded between the two nations reached $129 billion, with the US facing a $45.7 billion trade deficit, according to data from the Office of the United States Trade Representative.

India Reportedly Pauses Russian Oil Purchases

Trump’s comments came shortly after media reports suggested that Indian state-run oil companies had temporarily stopped buying Russian crude. The reported pause was due to reduced discounts and shipping hurdles, though the Indian government has not officially confirmed the development.

India Defends Its Ties with Russia and the US

Responding to the criticism from the US, India’s Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal defended the country's long-standing relationship with Russia.
“India and Russia share a steady and time-tested partnership,” he said.

Jaiswal also highlighted the importance of the US-India partnership, saying it was based on “shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties.” He expressed optimism that the current tensions would not derail the broader relationship, stating that bilateral ties would continue to move forward.

Looking Ahead

While Trump's remarks have stirred diplomatic tensions, India appears to be balancing its energy needs, global partnerships, and long-term strategies. Official confirmation of the oil import pause and details of the US penalty remain to be seen, but both sides have signaled a desire to preserve their strong economic and strategic relationship.