The Indian government reiterated that its energy policy remains guided by national interest. “Our consistent priority is to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are determined entirely by this objective,” the MEA statement said.
India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began in 2022. Despite Western sanctions, Indian refiners have continued purchasing Russian oil to keep domestic fuel prices stable.
According to official data, India ranks second only to China in importing Russian crude. This trade has been a point of friction between Washington and New Delhi, particularly as the Trump administration intensifies diplomatic efforts to isolate Moscow economically.
White House Response and Diplomatic Context
The White House has not issued an official transcript of the alleged conversation. A US official confirmed to that President Trump is scheduled to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin later this week. The conversation is expected to focus on stalled peace efforts and sanctions enforcement.
While India and the US maintain strong strategic ties, energy trade with Russia remains a sensitive subject. The US has repeatedly urged India to scale down purchases that provide vital revenue to the Kremlin. Yet, New Delhi has defended its position by pointing to ongoing oil imports by several European Union members, even after sanctions were imposed.
UK Sanctions Add Pressure
In a related move, the UK government this week announced fresh sanctions targeting entities linked to Russian oil distribution. Among them is India’s Nayara Energy Limited, which London claims imported 100 million barrels of Russian crude worth over $5 billion in 2024. UK officials accused the company of helping “facilitate Russian oil’s entry into global markets.”
Nayara Energy, partly owned by Russian oil giant Rosneft, has yet to comment on the allegations. Indian officials have previously defended the firm’s operations, noting that energy imports are conducted within international legal frameworks and are essential for India’s energy stability.
Strategic Balancing Continues
Experts believe the latest controversy underscores the challenges India faces in balancing its energy needs with its diplomatic partnerships. “India’s engagement with Russia is transactional, not ideological,” said a senior “As long as Western nations continue some level of trade with Russia, India will defend its right to pursue affordable energy sources.”
With Trump preparing to engage directly with Putin, the contradictory statements about the Modi-Trump call have created confusion in diplomatic circles. Analysts say this episode may prompt both sides to clarify their communications to prevent misunderstandings that could affect future cooperation.
For now, India’s stance remains unchanged: energy imports will continue to prioritize domestic economic stability and consumer protection, regardless of external political narratives.