Former United States President Donald Trump has publicly welcomed media reports suggesting that India may halt or reduce crude oil imports from Russia, calling the potential decision a "good step" and an important geopolitical move. His statement, delivered during an interaction with conservative policy analysts in Washington, D.C., is being viewed as part of his broader foreign policy narrative that demands isolation of Russia over its ongoing conflicts and aggressive posture.

Though there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government regarding a halt to Russian oil imports, sources within both U.S. diplomatic circles and Indian energy firms have hinted at a possible strategic recalibration by India, driven by evolving global political pressures and economic pragmatism.

Trump praises India’s potential energy shift

During the policy roundtable, Trump said,
"If India is really taking steps to stop buying oil from Russia, that’s a very good thing. It shows leadership and solidarity with global efforts to isolate a dangerous regime."

Trump emphasized that energy dependence on adversarial states weakens the international community’s ability to enforce diplomatic pressure, especially when countries like Russia continue to flout international norms and military restraint.

The former president, who is also the leading Republican candidate for the 2026 U.S. Presidential elections, reiterated that energy diplomacy must align with democratic values, and India making such a shift would be "commendable and necessary."

India’s oil trade with Russia under global watch

India had been increasingly reliant on discounted Russian oil after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, making it one of the top buyers of Russian crude. This decision was defended by Indian officials on the basis of national interest, energy affordability, and strategic autonomy.

However, Western powers, particularly the United States and European Union, have persistently expressed concerns over India’s continued purchases, even as they imposed heavy sanctions on Moscow.

In recent months, there have been unconfirmed but credible reports indicating:

• Lower monthly crude volumes arriving from Russian ports to Indian refineries

• Internal consultations between Indian oil majors and the Petroleum Ministry

• Growing incentives from Western countries, including offers of alternative energy partnerships

A halt or even a significant scale-down of Russian oil imports by India would thus be seen not just as an economic decision, but also a political realignment.

Trump’s consistent stance on Russia

Donald Trump has, both during and after his presidency, maintained a tough public stance on commercial ties with Russia. Despite criticism from opponents accusing him of being soft on Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump has repeatedly called for energy independence from adversarial powers.

In his latest remarks, he said:
"India is a great partner and a strong democracy. I’m glad they’re thinking of doing what’s right. Buying oil from Russia only emboldens tyranny."

He also signaled that if re-elected, his administration would work on a robust US-India energy corridor that reduces New Delhi’s dependence on any single geopolitical source.

Indian government’s silent diplomacy

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has neither confirmed nor denied the reports regarding the possible halt in oil imports. However, senior officials in the Ministry of Petroleum have reportedly paused long-term contracts with some Russian suppliers, citing logistical bottlenecks, payment settlement issues due to sanctions, and rising shipping insurance costs.

While public announcements remain unlikely in the short term, Indian diplomatic messaging has become noticeably softer when questioned on its Russia policy. This subtle shift is being interpreted as a sign of gradual strategic distancing without openly confronting Moscow.

A Delhi-based energy policy analyst noted,
"India has always walked a fine line. But the shift in global oil markets, falling price advantages, and the U.S. election narrative are clearly influencing the thinking in New Delhi."

Implications for India-Russia ties

India and Russia share decades-long ties rooted in defense, energy, and space cooperation. Russia remains a key arms supplier, and the two nations conduct joint military drills annually. Any noticeable change in the energy trade could strain this historical relationship, especially as Russia leans more towards China and Middle Eastern markets for its energy exports.

However, experts argue that India may now prioritise multipolar balancing, reducing overdependence on any one partner. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), SCO dialogues, and BRICS cooperation will still offer platforms for strategic engagement without heavy oil trade reliance.

US-India energy cooperation on the horizon

The possible reduction in oil trade with Russia opens the door for enhanced US-India energy ties. India has already begun importing LNG from the U.S., and companies are exploring joint green energy projects, including:

• Hydrogen fuel collaboration

• Nuclear energy technology sharing

• Solar panel manufacturing under India’s PLI scheme

• Expansion of strategic petroleum reserves with U.S. participation

Trump said during the roundtable:
"We can supply India with what they need. Clean, affordable, and secure energy. That’s how partnerships work."

Global reactions and strategic calculations

While Trump’s comments were widely reported in the U.S. and Europe, reactions from Indian political circles remained measured. Congress party spokespersons questioned the timing and source of the reports, calling for clarity from the Modi government.

On the other hand, strategic affairs commentators welcomed the possibility of India shifting away from Russia, noting that such moves enhance India’s credibility as a major democratic power and quad partner.

"Whether it's due to economic logic or external pressure, India moving away from Russian oil would be significant," said a senior fellow at the Observer Research Foundation.

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"But it must be accompanied by credible alternatives and energy security measures."