Modi Trump exchange adds political storm in growing diplomatic nuance over Russia oil purchase

By Anjali Sharma

UNITED NATIONS – US President Donald Trump’s repeated claims on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would significantly reduce its purchase of Russian crude oil has again erupted the diplomatic and political tempest, media reported.

Modi acknowledged Trump’s Diwali greetings with warmth, he has remained silent on the contentious oil import issue, fueling debate and criticism from Opposition leaders and analysts alike.

Trump reiterated his assertions during a White House Diwali celebration on Tuesday, stated “I spoke to Prime Minister Modi today he’s not going to buy much oil from Russia. He wants to see the war end with Russia-Ukraine. They’ve cut it way back and are continuing to cut it way back.”

This is the fourth time that Trump publicly referenced India’s oil dealings with Russia in less than a week, intensifying scrutiny of India-Russia deal as he prepares to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The Ministry of External Affairs has denied any conversations between the two leaders regarding a commitment to cease Russian oil imports.

It has consistently maintained that India’s energy policy prioritizes national interests and consumer protection amid global market volatility.

Prime Minister Modi’s social media response hit a diplomatic tone, expressed gratitude for Trump’s warm Diwali wishes and reaffirmed the strength of India-US ties.

“Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms,” Modi said in a post on his X handle.

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh seized on the disparity between the two leaders’ statements to criticize the government’s handling of the issue.

“While Mr. Modi conceals, Mr. Trump reveals,” Ramesh wrote on X, questioned why Modi has not directly addressed Trump’s claims.

“Why is Modi hiding behind the External Affairs Ministry and asking officers to respond?” he demanded to know, underscored concerns over transparency in India’s foreign policy and energy security strategy.

The controversy cited a complex diplomatic balancing act for India.

Western sanctions targeted Russia after the 2022 Ukraine invasion, India has increased its purchases of discounted Russian crude to secure affordable energy for its people of over 1.4 billion.

India has expanded energy cooperation with the US, signaling a desire to diversify sources without alienating key partners.

Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov affirmed Russia’s respect for India’s independent decision-making and emphasized the benefits of Russian oil imports for India’s economy.

The entire episode has reignited debate on India’s strategic autonomy in foreign relations and its pragmatic approach to energy security amid geopolitical pressures.

Modi government facing mounting political and public expectations for clarity, the unfolding narrative reveals a delicate interplay of diplomacy, national interest, and international scrutiny.

India navigates this diplomatic crossroad, the world watches closely to see how the government balances competing interests while safeguarding the country’s economic and strategic priorities.

Modi-Trump exchange framed in festive greetings, has opened a window into the complexities defining India’s role on the global stage today.