In a surprising diplomatic twist, India says it was unaware of a direct conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Russian oil purchases. The denial counters Trump’s public claim that Modi had assured him India would stop buying oil from Russia — a pledge that New Delhi is now prompting to be questioned.
Background: Trump’s Claim on Russian Oil Commitment
On October 15, 2025, President Donald Trump told reporters that “Modi assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia.” He portrayed the statement as a diplomatic win, framing it as a concrete step toward reducing India’s dependence on Russian energy. Trump also indicated that this could put pressure on China to follow suit.
His statement came amid growing tensions over global oil imports, sanctions on Russia for its war in Ukraine, and U.S. pressure on major energy consumers to cease sourcing from Moscow.
India’s Official Response: “No Such Conversation Took Place”
Within hours, New Delhi pushed back. A spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, clarified that officials were “not aware of any telephonic conversation between PM Modi and President Trump on Wednesday.” This public denial suggests India is rejecting Trump’s narrative. Reuters+2Politico+2
Analysts say India’s statement aims to stress its strategic autonomy in foreign policy, especially in energy decisions. The Indian government further noted that all import policies are guided by safeguarding consumer interests and maintaining energy security — rather than responding to external pressure. Politico+1
Why This Denial Matters: Stakes in Energy & Diplomacy
- Credibility and Diplomatic Messaging
Trump’s claim gave the impression of a U.S. diplomatic success — implying that he had secured a commitment from India. India’s denial undermines that narrative and indicates a disconnect in how each side presents the “facts.” - India’s Dependence on Russian Oil
Since 2023, India has become one of the largest buyers of Russian seaborne crude, drawn by discounted rates under Western sanctions. The Washington Post+2The Guardian+2 Cutting off Russian oil abruptly would pose challenges for energy supply, refinery arrangements, and cost stability. - U.S.–India Trade Tensions
The United States had already imposed a 50 percent tariff on Indian imports, partially blaming India’s Russian oil trade. Politico+2AP News+2 Trump has tied lowering those tariffs to India’s winding down of Russian oil purchases. - Strategic Autonomy
India historically has emphasized nonalignment and autonomy in major decisions. Analysts interpret the denial as a reminder that New Delhi resists appearing subservient to U.S. pressure on energy policy. Politico+2The Washington Post+2
Could India Still Phase Out Russian Oil — Quietly?
Though India denied any explicit pledge, it has privately signalled willingness to adjust oil imports over time. Several experts argue that India may reduce Russian volumes gradually — but without making a high-profile public commitment. The Washington Post+2Politico+2
Indeed, India is reportedly exploring increased imports from the U.S. as part of a diversification strategy. AP News But the decision will largely depend on price competitiveness, supply security, and refinery compatibility.
| Keyword | Intent | Example Use in Article |
|---|---|---|
| India denies Trump oil call | News / clarification | “India denies Trump oil call amid diplomatic tensions.” |
| Modi Trump Russian oil conversation | Informational | “Debate grows: Did Modi-Trump Russian oil conversation even occur?” |
| India unaware of conversation on oil | Informational / news | “India says it was unaware of conversation on oil pledges.” |
| India rejects Trump claim Russian oil | News / fact check | “India rejects Trump claim regarding Russian oil assurances.” |
| diplomatic spat India US energy | Analytical / background | “This development adds a diplomatic spat in India-US energy relations.” |
Implications and what to Watch Next
- Follow-up statements: Watch for any clarification from the White House or Modi’s office. Further comments might attempt to reconcile the contradiction.
- Oil import data: India’s monthly data on crude imports (especially from Russia vs U.S.) will offer clues on whether new policy shifts follow.
- U.S.–India trade agreements: Any future trade deal may tie energy cooperation clauses or conditions on resource sourcing.
- Domestic reactions: Indian political opponents and media may criticize the government’s handling of foreign pressure and messaging.
Conclusion
India’s clear denial — stating it was unaware of any Modi-Trump call about Russian oil — sets aside Trump’s narrative of a breakthrough diplomatic pledge. The conflicting accounts underscore how sensitive and contested energy policy has become in global geopolitics. For now, India maintains that its decisions on Russian oil will be driven by market logic, consumer protection, and strategic autonomy — not public claims by foreign leaders.
