U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that India will continue to face “massive” tariffs if it does not halt imports of Russian oil, reigniting trade tensions between Washington and New Delhi.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him that India would stop buying Russian crude. However, when informed that India’s government had denied any such conversation, Trump retorted: “If they want to say that, then they’ll just continue to pay massive tariffs and they don’t want to do that.”
The U.S. government maintains that revenue from Russian petroleum sales is helping fund Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
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Trump’s administration has imposed steep tariffs, reportedly up to 50% on Indian goods, with half of those said to be linked to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
India has become the largest buyer of discounted seaborne Russian oil since Western nations imposed sanctions following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Despite U.S. pressure, Indian officials have repeatedly emphasized that the country’s priority remains ensuring energy security and protecting consumers.
Trade discussions between the countries are ongoing. An Indian official described the talks as “congenial” but declined to share details, noting that a delegation recently returned from Washington.
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Meanwhile, commodities tracker Kpler estimated that India’s imports of Russian oil could rise by 20% in October to about 1.9 million barrels per day, as Russia boosts exports following drone attacks on its refineries.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
