Donald Trump claims to hear India might stop buying oil from Russia, says 'good step'

In his recent remarks, US President Donald Trump stated that he has heard that India may no longer import Russian oil. Further acknowledging that he is not certain about the authenticity of the claim. 

While talking to reporters, Trump said, "I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia. That's what I heard. I'm not sure if it is right or not. That is a good step. We will see what happens." 

#WATCH | "I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia. That's what I heard, I don't know if that's right or not. That is a good step. We will see what happens..." says, US President Donald Trump on a question by ANI, if he had a number in mind for the… pic.twitter.com/qAbGUkpE12

— ANI (@ANI) August 1, 2025

These statements come after the Trump administration heavily criticized the Indian Government for buying Russian oil. The White House even passed an executive order levying 25 percent tariffs on India on all products exported to America, followed by an additional penalty (unspecified amount) for purchasing Russian oil. 

Donald Trump also took to his Truth Social account to criticize India for maintaining the highest tariffs in the world and obnoxious trade barriers while buying Russian oil and military equipment during its ongoing war with Ukraine. 

On Friday, UK news agency Reuters reported that India had not purchased Russian oil in the past week. Notably, India is the third-largest importer of oil in the world. Also, the biggest buyer of seaborne Russian crude which serves to be a major source of revenue for Russia. 

India's spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry, Randhir Jaiswal, had defended India for procuring energy and defence equipment from Russia. Jaiswal stated that New Delhi and Moscow have a "steady and time-tested partnership." 

About Trump's policy on India, he said, "India and the US share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties. This partnership has weathered several transitions and challenges. We remain focused on the substantive agenda that our two countries have committed to and are confident that the relationship will continue to move forward."