Overview
- At a White House Diwali event on Oct. 21, President Trump said he spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reiterated that India would curb future large-scale purchases of Russian crude.
- India’s Ministry of External Affairs said no phone call took place between the leaders, repeating its earlier denial of Trump’s claim.
- Reports citing Mint say the two countries may be nearing a trade agreement that could cut U.S. tariffs on Indian goods from about 50% to roughly 15–16%, a development not confirmed by either capital.
- Coverage indicates energy and agriculture are central to the talks, with any prospective deal potentially addressing India’s imports of Russian oil.
- Modi thanked Trump for Diwali wishes in an X post without sharing trade details, as opposition leaders in India sought clarity on Russian oil buying and the status of discussions.