US President Donald Trump has once again claimed that India will significantly reduce its imports of Russian oil by the end of this year, describing the transition as a gradual “process.” Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he had recently spoken with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who assured him that India plans to sharply cut its Russian oil purchases, aiming to bring them down to nearly zero, which currently accounts for about 40 percent of India’s oil imports.

Trump’s remarks come amid new US sanctions targeting major Russian oil companies like Rosneft and Lukoil, as part of broader efforts to pressure Russia over its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The sanctions aim to cut off crucial revenue sources that support Russia’s war machinery. Trump praised India for being cooperative in this energy realignment but emphasized the challenge of abruptly halting oil imports, acknowledging that such changes take time.

India has officially denied any formal agreement or commitment to cease imports of Russian oil. The Indian government continues to prioritize protecting consumer interests, maintaining stable energy prices, and securing reliable supplies to meet the demands of its growing population. India has positioned itself as one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian oil, particularly after many Western countries withdrew from Russian energy markets following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

This ongoing situation also reflects the delicate balance India tries to maintain between geopolitical and economic interests. While the US expects India to align more closely with its sanctions regime on Russia, India’s energy policy remains focused on affordability and energy security for its citizens. Trump has linked his imposition of substantial tariffs on Indian goods partly to these energy ties with Russia, threatening to maintain high tariffs until India complies with demands to stop Russian oil imports.

Trump further commented on China’s relationship with Russia, suggesting that ties between Beijing and Moscow were strained and that China too could face steep tariffs if trade agreements are not reached soon. His comments underline the broader US strategy of incentivizing allies and partners to isolate Russia economically while pushing for an end to the Ukraine conflict.