India Reaffirms Energy Diversification After Trump’s Remarks on Russian Oil

India has reiterated its commitment to diversifying energy sources following the U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him New Delhi would halt Russian oil imports. Responding to the comments, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India’s energy policy is guided by the twin goals of ensuring stable prices and securing supplies in a volatile global market.
Jaiswal emphasized that India has been broadening its energy base and expanding procurement from multiple regions, including the United States. He noted that energy cooperation between India and the U.S. has steadily strengthened over the past decade, with ongoing discussions aimed at further deepening the partnership.
However, Jaiswal did not directly address Trump’s assertion regarding an alleged assurance from Modi. Officials familiar with the matter said that while India’s Russian oil purchases have declined recently — partly due to U.S. sanctions and a 25% levy imposed on Indian imports — a complete cessation is unlikely in the near term.
Meanwhile, Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov stated that Russia remains India’s “most reliable energy partner,” still accounting for roughly one-third of India’s energy imports. Alipov described Russian oil as a cost-effective choice for India’s growing energy needs.
Indian officials also expressed confusion over Trump’s claim of a recent conversation with Modi, noting that no such interaction between the two leaders had been recorded.