The White House is claiming that India, like China, is scaling back its purchases of Russian oil at the request of President Donald Trump, a move New Delhi firmly denies. The conflicting narratives emerge as the US imposes a new round of heavy sanctions on Russia’s energy sector.
The US Position
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump is “increasingly frustrated” by the lack of progress in ending the Russia-Ukraine war, which motivated the new sanctions.
- Leavitt claimed that the sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil, are “pretty hefty” and are expected to “do harm” to Moscow’s economy.
- She then asserted that both China and India are scaling back their Russian oil purchases, with India doing so “at the President’s request.”
- The President has also pushed European allies to stop their oil purchases from Russia in what Leavitt called a “full court press.”
India’s Rejection and Pragmatic Shift
India has consistently rejected the White House’s claim of coordinated action, maintaining that its energy policy is independent and guided solely by “national interest and consumer security” to ensure stable prices and reliable supply chains.
Despite this official denial, the new US sanctions appear to be forcing a practical change. A Reuters report indicated that India is likely to cut back its imports of Russian crude, with state-run refiners reportedly reviewing contracts to ensure they do not take shipments directly from the newly sanctioned Rosneft or Lukoil. This recalibration comes amid existing trade tensions with the US, including Trump’s decision to impose 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods.
Trump’s Frustration with Putin
Leavitt confirmed that President Trump’s frustration is directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin for showing “not enough interest or action” toward a peace settlement.
- The implementation of sanctions was described as “appropriate and necessary” given the lack of progress.
- A planned meeting between Trump and Putin has been postponed indefinitely after Moscow rejected a US ceasefire proposal.
- Leavitt emphasized that a future meeting is “not completely off the table,” but the US wants to ensure a “tangible positive outcome” that makes it a good use of the President’s time.
In response, Putin accused the US of using economic pressure, calling the sanctions an “unfriendly move” that would not improve relations. He stated that the measures would have “little effect” on Russia’s economy, adding, “No self-respecting country ever does anything under pressure.”
This situation highlights the complex balancing act India faces between its historical ties and discounted energy needs from Russia, and the increasing pressure from the US. What do you think the long-term impact of these new US sanctions will be on India’s energy sourcing strategy?
