New Delhi emphasizes that safeguarding consumers comes first, as the U.S. President’s assertion that PM Modi promised to stop buying Russian oil stirs debate.
What Trump Claimed & India’s Immediate Response
At a recent event, U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India would halt oil purchases from Russia, calling it an important diplomatic pledge.
In response, New Delhi, through the Ministry of External Affairs, stated that India’s energy decisions are rooted in national priorities, not external promises. A spokesperson clarified that the country consistently aims to protect consumer interests amid volatile global energy markets.
India’s Policy Priorities Highlighted
The MEA’s official response emphasized three main pillars:
- Consumer Protection: India places top importance on ensuring stable prices and energy availability for its citizens.
- Supply & Diversification: The country continues to diversify its energy imports to reduce overreliance on any single supplier.
- Dialogue with the U.S.: Officials confirmed ongoing discussions with the U.S. to expand energy cooperation — but no commitments beyond India’s sovereign energy goals.
The statement specifically read:
“India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer … Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.”
Political Reactions & Context
- Opposition Response: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government’s silence and urged clarity, stating, “PM Modi is frightened of Trump.”
- Government Pushback: Union minister Piyush Goyal countered the criticism, accusing the opposition of being leaderless and directionless.
This development comes against the backdrop of India’s steady Russian oil imports, despite Western censure since the Ukraine conflict began. It also intersects with U.S. trade pressures, including recent tariffs targeting Indian goods linked to Russian energy purchases.
What This Means Going Forward
- Diplomatic Sensitivities: The episode highlights how energy policy becomes intertwined with high-level diplomacy and public perceptions.
- Policy Flexibility: India’s assertion of consumer-first governance suggests it may resist binding commitments made under external pressure.
- Watch for Moves: Market watchers will look closely for any signals of change in India’s oil import pattern or formal statements from both New Delhi and Washington.
Related News : Trump Claims India Will Stop Buying Russian Oil — Numbers Paint a Different Picture
