India Denies Phone Call Between PM Modi And Trump Over Russian Oil

India on Thursday firmly rejected claims made by US President Donald Trump that he had a recent telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which Trump alleged that Modi "assured" him that India would stop purchasing Russian oil.

MEA Clarifies Position

Responding to Trump's statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that no such conversation took place. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "Regarding the comment from the US on the energy issue, we have already issued a statement, which you can refer to. As for the telephonic conversation, I can say that there has been no discussion between the Prime Minister and President Trump."

Trump's Comments at the White House

Trump, speaking at the White House, praised PM Modi as "a great man" and India as "an incredible country." He claimed that Modi had assured him that India would cease buying oil from Russia. Trump added that the process would not be immediate but would conclude soon and suggested that this move could help ease the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Trump also introduced the newly appointed US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, during the briefing, noting that Gor "will do a great job" in representing US interests.

India's Energy Policy Reaffirmed

Following Trump's remarks, the Indian government reiterated its long-standing energy policy, emphasizing that energy import decisions are guided by national interests and consumer priorities, not foreign political pressure.

The MEA noted:

• India is a major oil and gas importer, and protecting consumer interests in a volatile energy scenario is a priority.
• The country's energy strategy focuses on stable prices and secure supplies, with efforts to broad-base and diversify sourcing to meet market conditions.
• India has long sought to expand energy cooperation with the US, and discussions with Washington on this front are ongoing.

The statement underscored that India's approach to energy security remains driven by national priorities, ensuring stable, diversified, and reliable energy imports rather than yielding to external political pressures.