With geopolitical tensions rising and global energy markets volatile, former US President Donald Trump has called on India to stop importing Russian oil.
Portraying it as a move by the international community to rally against Moscow’s actions in Ukraine, Trump said the ongoing energy trade with Russia undermines Western efforts to isolate the Kremlin economically.
India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, relies heavily on cheap crude to support its vast and rapidly expanding economy. With Western sanctions driving Russian oil prices down by global standards, India has emerged as a leading buyer of Russian crude—often getting it at discounted prices through rupee-ruble transactions or other payment methods that bypass US-led sanctions.
From New Delhi’s perspective, the purchase of Russian oil is based on economic pragmatism rather than political alignment. Indian officials have consistently stressed that their nation has the sovereign right to make energy choices in line with national interests. “We have a moral obligation to provide affordable fuel to our citizens,” Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said in support of the policy, stressing that energy access and price stability are crucial for India’s 1.4 billion citizens.
Trump’s request reflects broader Western pressure on countries that continue to trade with Russia. Nevertheless, the Modi administration is balancing diplomatic tensions. India maintains strategic alliances with the United States and the European Union while simultaneously maintaining enduring defense and trade ties with Russia. The balance is delicate, and New Delhi is determined to avoid being pressured into choosing sides.
Moreover, many Indian analysts see Trump’s pressure — and by extension, Western governments — as being selectively applied. As Europe insists on importing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) and other goods under certain exemptions, India has faced criticism for taking comparable steps to protect its interests.
India’s disregard for Trump’s request also signals a shift in global power dynamics. Unlike before, New Delhi is establishing itself as an independent global player, reluctant to operate solely under Western hegemony. This new stance is particularly evident under Modi, whose foreign policy favors “multi-alignment” rather than aligning with parties in major power conflicts.
An additional factor is timing. Trump, who is currently seeking to reclaim the presidency, is exploiting international issues such as the oil ties between India and Russia to mobilize his political supporters. By portraying India as a key player in need of American “reform,” Trump has reinforced his central theme of “America First” and aggressive diplomacy.
Ultimately, India’s position is clear: decisions will be made based on economic sovereignty, national sovereignty, and a multipolar perspective, rather than external influence. The ongoing shift in the global order highlights a profound shift in international relations, epitomized by the standoff between Trump and Modi over Russian oil.
**Worldwide Oil Price Spike Threatens Due to Market Changes**
Recent geopolitical and economic changes may lead to a notable increase in global oil prices, directly impacting consumers in the United States. Analysts caution that disturbances in essential oil-producing areas—like persistent conflicts in the Middle East, OPEC+ production reductions, and possible sanctions on major providers—are constricting worldwide supply. Consequently, oil markets are experiencing heightened volatility.
The U.S., despite being a major oil producer, remains reliant on international pricing standards. An increase in global crude prices results in higher gas prices at U.S. pumps, elevated transportation expenses, and overall inflationary strain. Economists observe that these variations can cascade through supply chains, impacting food costs, airfare, and consumer products.
The scenario is additionally complicated by increasing demand from developing nations such as India and China, which are boosting consumption after COVID. At the same time, severe weather occurrences, such as hurricanes and heatwaves, are posing risks to refinery functions and logistics.
Although governments can utilize strategic reserves or provide subsidies to stabilize local prices, these measures are only short-term fixes. Experts assert that sustainable relief relies on wider energy diversification, stable diplomacy, and international collaboration. As tensions rise, both consumers and markets prepare for a possible increase in oil prices
