(MENAFN) With US rhetoric becoming increasingly forceful, India is facing mounting pressure over its energy trade with Russia from multiple directions. Former US President Donald Trump’s recent comments have intensified the situation. Alongside imposing a 25% tariff on Indian exports, Trump sharply criticized India for maintaining energy and defense ties with Russia, accusing New Delhi of indirectly supporting US adversaries by continuing to buy Russian oil. He even suggested that India and Russia might “take their dead economies down together,” portraying their economic relationship as counter to US interests.

These remarks reflect a broader hardening stance within the US government. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described India’s purchase of discounted Russian oil as a significant irritant in US-India relations, explaining that India’s growing energy needs lead it to buy cheaper Russian oil, which due to sanctions is sold below global market prices. Rubio acknowledged this supports Russia’s war effort, making it a contentious issue.

Adding to the pressure, Stephen Miller, a top aide to Trump, accused India of effectively financing Russia’s conflict in Ukraine through its oil purchases, highlighting that India buys nearly as much Russian oil as China, a fact that surprised many.

This signals a bipartisan and sustained US pressure on India’s policy toward Russia, likely to continue regardless of the administration in power.

India responded firmly, stating it will continue buying Russian oil as long as it serves national interests. The Indian foreign ministry emphasized that energy purchases are driven by market conditions and affordability, with a focus on safeguarding the welfare of Indian consumers.

MENAFN05082025000045015687ID1109885510