A top aide to former President Donald Trump has accused India of indirectly financing Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to import oil from Moscow. “What he [Trump] said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia,” said Stephen Miller, former White House Deputy Chief of Staff.
Miller’s remarks represent one of the strongest criticisms from the Trump administration toward India, a key U.S. ally in the Indo-Pacific. “People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil. That’s an astonishing fact,” he said.
Despite ongoing U.S. pressure, Indian officials have signaled their intent to continue sourcing oil from Russia, even as potential sanctions on Moscow’s trading partners are expected next week.
This follows recent reports suggesting India might halt Russian oil imports—claims former President Donald Trump cautiously welcomed.
“I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia,” Trump told reporters. “That’s what I heard. I don’t know if that’s right or not. That is a good step. We’ll see what happens.”
However, Indian officials have dismissed the claim. Citing factors such as “price, grade of crude, inventories, logistics, and other economic considerations,” they stated that supply decisions remain unchanged and Russian oil imports have not been paused, according to an ANI report.
Trump’s remarks came shortly after the White House announced sweeping tariffs — including a 25% levy on all Indian goods — along with penalties for continued defense and energy dealings with Russia.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added to the criticism, calling India’s close ties with Moscow a “point of irritation” in its relationship with Washington. While acknowledging India as a “strategic partner,” Rubio emphasized that continued purchases of Russian oil were straining bilateral ties.
Russian oil now accounts for 35% to 40% of India’s total crude imports — a sharp increase from just 3% in 2021. (Agencies)
