Trump's big Russian oil claim, 'destroy career' remark for Modi, India's denial: What happened in 24 hours

By Admin

18 Oct, 2025

A fresh wave of diplomatic tension unfolded within 24 hours after former US President Donald Trump made a bold assertion involving India’s trade ties with Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and US-India relations. The remarks came amid ongoing trade negotiations between New Delhi and Washington, and quickly drew global attention.

Trump’s Claim on India-Russia Oil Trade

During a press conference at the White House on Wednesday (local time), Donald Trump claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had personally assured him that India would “not be buying oil from Russia.”
Trump said, “He’s (PM Modi) a friend of mine. We have a great relationship... I was not happy that India was buying oil. And he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big step.”

The statement came as a surprise, considering India is the world’s second-largest buyer of Russian energy after China. Trump added that while the transition “can’t happen immediately,” the process to end the purchases had already begun.

These remarks came after weeks of trade negotiations between India and the US, following Trump’s steep 50% tariffs on Indian imports imposed in August. The duties were doubled as part of Trump’s push to pressure India over its Russian oil purchases   a sticking point in bilateral trade talks.

“Don’t Want to Destroy Modi’s Political Career”

In the same press briefing, Trump made a lighthearted but controversial comment referencing Modi’s political standing. Quoting US Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor, Trump said, “He loves Trump... I don’t want you to take the word love any differently... I don’t want to destroy his political career,” drawing laughter from the press corps.

Gor had recently returned from New Delhi after meeting PM Modi and presenting a photograph signed by Trump that read, “Mr Prime Minister, you are great.” Trump went on to praise India’s political stability under Modi, calling him a “strong and consistent leader.”

Opposition in India Reacts

Back in India, Trump’s remarks ignited a political storm.
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticized PM Modi on X (formerly Twitter), claiming that Modi was “frightened of Trump” and accusing him of lacking transparency over the US President’s assertions. Gandhi wrote that Modi “keeps sending congratulatory messages despite repeated snubs.”

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also weighed in, urging the government to clarify Trump’s comments, saying that “silence is betrayal” when it comes to sensitive foreign policy matters.

India Denies Trump’s Claims

Within hours, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a formal response, denying Trump’s claims about the phone conversation and reaffirming India’s independent energy policy.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.”

Jaiswal further clarified, “I am not aware of any conversation yesterday between the two leaders,” denying Trump’s statement that he had spoken with Modi.

On US-India energy trade, Jaiswal added, “Where the US is concerned, we have for many years sought to expand our energy procurement. This has steadily progressed in the last decade. The current administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing.”

Russia Responds: “Our Oil is Beneficial for India”

Amid growing international interest, Russia also reacted to Trump’s comments.
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov stated, “India and the US are independent in their decisions, and we do not interfere in those issues. Our oil supplies are very beneficial for the Indian economy and the welfare of the Indian people.”

Moscow’s response was seen as an attempt to reinforce the strategic energy partnership between Russia and India, which has been critical for India’s energy security since the Ukraine war began.

A Diplomatic Tightrope

The 24-hour episode underscores the delicate balance India must maintain between its traditional ties with Russia and its growing partnership with the United States. Trump’s unexpected statements have momentarily reignited debates on India’s global energy strategy and its diplomatic positioning amid global geopolitical tensions.

While Washington continues to push New Delhi to reduce reliance on Russian crude, India remains firm that its energy imports are driven solely by national interest   ensuring affordable energy for its consumers in an unpredictable global market.