India has firmly rebutted comments made by US President Donald Trump regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance to halt Russian oil purchases, asserting that its energy sourcing is driven by national interests and the protection of Indian consumers, reports 24brussels.

In a statement responding to media inquiries, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that India is a major importer of oil and gas. He stated, “It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective.” Jaiswal highlighted that maintaining stable energy prices and secure supplies are critical components of India’s energy policy that also aims to widen its energy sourcing and diversify, as market conditions dictate.

Jaiswal’s remarks followed President Trump’s assertion that PM Modi committed to ceasing oil purchases from Russia, which Trump described as “a big step” towards amplifying global pressure on Moscow. This statement was made during a joint press conference with FBI Director Kash Patel at the Oval Office, where attention was drawn to the administration’s initiatives aimed at combatting violent crime.

When asked if he considered India a reliable partner, Trump responded affirmatively, expressing satisfaction with Modi’s assurance. Trump remarked, “Yeah, sure. He’s a friend of mine. We have a great relationship… I was not happy that India was buying oil. And he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big stop. Now we’ve got to get China to do the same thing…”

Despite Trump’s commendations, he criticized India for its previous imports of Russian oil, articulating that such purchases allow Russia to sustain its ongoing conflict, which he characterized as unjustifiable. “We were not happy with him buying oil from Russia… because that lets Russia continue on with this ridiculous war,” he asserted, citing significant Russian military losses.

For its part, India has long maintained that its imports of oil from Moscow are vital for its economic stability, all while facing US pressure to diversify its energy sources. Trump characterized the war in Ukraine as unnecessary, stating, “This is a war that should have never started,” underscoring his desire for it to end swiftly. Meanwhile, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP, has utilized Trump’s comments to criticize the Indian government, alleging that PM Modi is fearful of Trump’s influence.