US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally assured him that India would cease its purchases of Russian oil.
If confirmed, this shift could enhance Trump’s efforts to pressure Moscow into negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. “There will be no oil. He’s not buying oil,” Trump remarked, adding that the transition would not happen immediately but rather “within a short period of time.”
As of now, the Indian government has not officially confirmed this change, and the Indian embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment.
Trump has expressed frustration with the lack of progress in ending the conflict in Ukraine, which began following Russia’s invasion nearly four years ago. He has increasingly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling him as a significant barrier to achieving a resolution. Trump is also scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.
India ranks as the second-largest buyer of Russian oil, following China. Trump’s displeasure with India’s purchase practices was also evident when he imposed higher tariffs on the country in August.
Published on October 16, 2025.
