Russia on Tuesday rejected the assertion that India has agreed to stop buying Russian crude oil, saying it has received no formal communication from New Delhi on the matter, even as Washington promotes a new trade deal involving energy supplies.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Moscow had “not heard any statements from India” about ending purchases of Russian oil, directly countering claims made by US President Donald Trump on Monday.
Trump had publicly stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to halt Russian oil imports as part of a broader trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs and increasing American energy exports.
Peskov emphasised that the Kremlin values its relationship with India and intends to continue developing bilateral ties, including in energy and strategic cooperation.
He said Russia is closely monitoring international commentary on the issue but has not seen any official notification from Indian authorities regarding a change in oil purchasing policy.
The context for the differing narratives stems from Trump’s announcement of a trade pact with India in which he said tariffs on Indian goods would be reduced, and India would expand energy purchases from the United States and potentially other sources.
Trump claimed Modi agreed to stop buying Russian oil in return for the tariff cut, a statement that has generated debate among global energy analysts.
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Market observers say that even if India were to alter its oil supply mix, such a shift would likely be gradual rather than immediate, given the scale of its energy needs and existing contractual arrangements.
Credit ratings firm Moody’s noted that stopping Russian oil imports abruptly could disrupt supply and would require careful planning by refiners.
India historically became one of the largest buyers of discounted Russian crude following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, but energy import patterns have shown signs of diversification in recent months as New Delhi engages with multiple partners.
With no official confirmation from New Delhi on ending Russian oil purchases, the debate underscores the complex interplay between geopolitical pressure, economic interests and long-term energy strategy.
