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Trump Warns of Penalty, But India Sticks to Russian Oil Imports

India has decided to continue buying oil from Russia even after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of possible penalties.

Last Updated : Sunday, 03 August 2025
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National News: India has decided to continue buying oil from Russia even after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of possible penalties. Government sources in India have said that these oil deals are long-term contracts, and it’s not possible to stop buying suddenly.

What Did Trump Say?

Last month, Donald Trump posted on his social media platform, “Truth Social,” and hinted that India might face extra penalties if it keeps buying oil and weapons from Russia. He said he heard that India may stop importing Russian oil and called it a “good step,” although he admitted he was not sure if that information was correct.

India’s Response

While India has not officially replied to Trump’s comments, government officials have made it clear that there is no order to stop oil imports from Russia. They explained that India buys oil based on national needs and market availability.

A top official told The New York Times that there has been no change in India’s oil import policy. Indian oil companies have not been asked to reduce or stop imports from Russia.

India Is the Biggest Buyer of Russian Oil

India is currently one of the largest buyers of Russian crude oil. Some media reports recently claimed that Indian state-owned oil companies had stopped buying oil from Russia after discounts were reduced in July. These reports named four major companies—Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL), and MRPL.

However, sources told news agency IANS that these companies are still buying Russian oil regularly, depending on demand. They are also exploring oil supply from other countries, like those in West Asia and Africa.

India’s Stand on Energy and Foreign Policy

The Ministry of External Affairs also commented on this issue. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India’s energy choices are based on market options and global situations. He added that India’s relationship with Russia is steady and time-tested and that India makes foreign policy decisions based on its own interests, not due to pressure from other countries.

Balancing Global Relations

India is walking a careful path by balancing its relations with many countries, including the U.S. and Russia. Even while facing pressure from the West, India continues to buy oil from different global suppliers to make sure its energy needs are met.

This also shows that India is following an independent foreign policy, where its decisions are based on what is best for the country, not on what others expect it to do.