U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to stop importing Russian oil, calling it a “big step” in curbing Moscow’s wartime revenues. However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs swiftly refuted the assertion, stating that no such commitment was made.

Speaking at a White House press briefing, Trump framed the alleged agreement as a diplomatic win tied to his administration’s August decision to impose 25% tariffs on Indian imports of discounted Russian crude. “Modi assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia,” Trump said, presenting it as a response to U.S. pressure amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

India responded Thursday through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, who said officials were “not aware of any conversation” regarding a halt to Russian oil purchases. While avoiding direct reference to Russia, the ministry reiterated India’s energy policy of diversification to ensure stable pricing and supply for its population of 1.4 billion.

The episode highlights growing tensions in U.S.-India relations, which have been tested by trade disputes and divergent stances on Russia despite shared strategic interests through the Quad alliance. India has emerged as Russia’s top oil customer since Western sanctions began in 2022, importing between 1.7 and 1.8 million barrels per day in early 2025, according to Kpler data. While state-owned firms have scaled back, private refiners have increased purchases.

Energy analysts say replacing Russian volumes quickly would be logistically difficult. “Almost impossible,” said Muyu Xu, citing quality differences and spot market limitations.

Trump’s tariffs—set to double to 50% for countries buying Russian oil—are part of a broader effort to reduce Kremlin revenues, which reached $180 billion last year despite sanctions. Modi, navigating domestic energy needs and global diplomacy, has hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin and resisted pressure to align with Western restrictions. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar acknowledged “issues” during August trade talks but expressed optimism about resolving them.

Observers view Trump’s remarks as political posturing ahead of Putin’s expected visit to India later this year. As New Delhi pursues bilateral deals and maintains a multipolar foreign policy, the episode underscores a key tension: Washington’s sanctions-driven approach versus India’s pragmatic energy strategy.