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Trump Repeats Claim Modi Vowed to End Russian Oil Imports, India Denies

Congress is using the dispute to question the government’s autonomy.

Overview

  • President Donald Trump has raised the issue three times in five days and warned India would face "massive" tariffs if Russian oil purchases continue.
  • India’s Ministry of External Affairs said no phone conversation occurred in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi made such a pledge and reiterated that energy sourcing is market-driven to protect consumers.
  • Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said Trump has brushed aside the MEA’s denial and called for the government to brief opposition parties.
  • Bilateral ties have been strained by higher U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, including reports of duties doubled to 50% and an additional 25% linked to purchases of Russian crude.
  • Reports note Trump is expected to meet Vladimir Putin in Budapest later this week, and the Russia oil issue could feature again in the run-up to that meeting.