India Pushes Back as U.S. Ramps Up Pressure
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a firm stance against U.S. efforts to curb India’s imports of Russian oil, as U.S. President Donald Trump intensifies diplomatic and economic pressure to isolate Russia over its war in Ukraine. Despite a renewed warning from Washington, Modi signaled no immediate shift in policy, instead rallying support for economic nationalism and reinforcing India’s commitment to independent decision-making.
Speaking at a public event in Uttar Pradesh over the weekend, Modi addressed the country’s economic strategy in light of global uncertainties and recent trade tensions. “The world economy is going through many apprehensions — there is an atmosphere of instability,” Modi said. “Now, whatever we buy, there should be only one scale: we will buy those things which have been made by the sweat of an Indian.”
Russian Oil Imports Remain a Commercial Choice
Despite rising pressure from the White House, Indian officials have clarified that no official directive has been issued to halt Russian crude imports. According to sources familiar with the matter, India’s oil refiners — both state-owned and private — are still free to purchase crude based on commercial preferences. The lack of a firm government decision reflects India’s effort to maintain flexibility in a volatile energy market.
While Bloomberg previously reported that refiners were asked to prepare alternatives to Russian crude, one source said this was only a contingency plan in case supplies were disrupted — not a sign of policy change.
Trump Threatens Tariffs, India Holds Ground
In a striking escalation, President Trump recently announced a 25% tariff on Indian exports to the U.S., signaling more trade restrictions could follow if India continues importing Russian oil. Trump also criticized India’s membership in the BRICS bloc and its deep ties with Moscow, stating, “They can take their dead economies down together.” His comments reflect a broader shift in U.S. policy — one that may risk undermining the strategic partnership Washington has cultivated with New Delhi to counterbalance China.
Stephen Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff, defended the administration’s tough approach on Sunday. “We have to be real about stopping the financing of this war,” Miller said. “President Trump still values the relationship with India, but all options are on the table.”
India Defends Strategic Autonomy
India’s Ministry of External Affairs responded with a strong statement defending its sovereign right to conduct international relations based on national interest. “Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country,” ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
He reaffirmed India’s longstanding ties with Russia, describing the relationship as “steady and time-tested.” Asked about India-U.S. relations, Jaiswal expressed optimism that engagement would continue. Trade talks between both nations are expected to resume later this month, with an American delegation scheduled to visit New Delhi.
Domestic Priorities in Focus Amid Global Tensions
The rising geopolitical friction comes as Modi renews his push for economic self-reliance under the “Make in India” banner. In his recent remarks, he emphasized protecting India’s farmers, small businesses, and youth employment from the potential fallout of external pressures.
“The interests of our farmers, our small industries and the employment of our youth are of paramount importance,” Modi said.
India has become the world’s largest buyer of Russian seaborne oil since sanctions reduced Moscow’s access to Western markets. While China remains Russia’s top economic partner, India’s growing share of Russian oil imports has drawn sharp scrutiny from Washington and Brussels.
Yet, given the high stakes — including energy security, inflation control, and geopolitical autonomy — India appears unlikely to make hasty decisions. As global power dynamics continue to shift, New Delhi is making it clear: it will act in its own economic and strategic interests, regardless of who disapproves.
