India’s government has subtly rebuffed President Donald Trump’s claims that it would stop buying Russian oil, aiming to prevent a public fight and end a trade dispute with Washington. This strategic move comes as India seeks to balance its energy needs with its diplomatic relations with both the United States and Russia. The comments by Trump, made during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, have added another layer of complexity to the bilateral relations between the two nations.
While the U.S. has expressed concerns over India’s continued oil purchases from Russia, India has maintained that its energy security is a top priority. The nation relies heavily on imported oil to meet its domestic demand, and any disruption in this supply chain could have significant economic implications. As a result, India has been careful in its approach, seeking to avoid direct confrontation while also signaling its commitment to maintaining good relations with both countries.
Analysts suggest that India’s strategy is to continue its oil imports from Russia while also working to address U.S. concerns through diplomatic channels. This approach allows India to maintain its energy security without alienating either major power. The situation highlights the delicate balance that India must strike in its foreign policy, particularly in the context of the ongoing global tensions between the U.S. and Russia.