Donald Trump’s assertion that he was “assured” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that India would stop buying Russian oil has ignited a geopolitical firestorm, drawing sharp rebuttals from India and a major strategic counter-move from Russia.
India’s MEA was first to react, stating that its energy policy is dictated by “national objective” and the “interests of the Indian consumer,” not by external assurances.
Russia’s Ambassador, Denis Alipov, called the oil “beneficial” to India’s economy. He then immediately pivoted to announcing a massive new defense deal, reinforcing the “backbone” of the 60-year military partnership.
This defense push includes offers for the Su-57 fighter, drones, and advanced radar, expanding on successful JVs like BrahMos and Su-30 MKI.
The episode highlights the intense three-way pressure on New Delhi. The US is using tariffs and verbal claims to pull India away from Russian energy, while Russia is countering with high-tech defense offers to solidify the alliance.