India Russia oil trade: In a fresh twist to the evolving US-India relationship, United States President Donald Trump’s deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, has launched a sharp attack on India for continuing its oil trade with Russia. Miller accused India of indirectly “financing the Ukraine war” by purchasing Russian crude—nearly as much as China does—despite mounting global pressure.
Speaking to reporters on August 3, Miller criticized New Delhi’s actions, saying,
“President Trump, he wants a tremendous relationship and has had always a tremendous relationship with India and the prime minister. But we need to get real about dealing with the financing of this war.”
Modi’s Defiant Stand Amid Tariff Threats
In response to escalating rhetoric from Washington, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a firm stance. Addressing the nation, Modi encouraged citizens to embrace self-reliance and prioritize locally manufactured goods, signaling that India will not bow to external economic pressures.
Sources close to the Indian government say the administration is not looking to scale back Russian oil purchases. Instead, they’re committed to securing affordable energy amid global volatility and protecting national interests.
US Alleges Trade and Immigration Violations
Besides the oil trade, Stephen Miller leveled further accusations, claiming that India imposes “massive” tariffs on American goods and abuses the US immigration system.
“India is cheating the US immigration system and imposing unjust trade barriers. This needs to be addressed urgently,” Miller asserted.
He added that “all options are on the table” for the Trump administration to handle this issue diplomatically and economically.
What’s at Stake?
The US-India partnership has been a key element of Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy, but recent developments threaten to strain ties. Trump’s “America First” approach, particularly in matters of trade and foreign policy, often clashes with India’s focus on energy security and strategic autonomy.
India’s oil imports from Russia, especially after the start of the Ukraine war, have steadily increased. While New Delhi maintains a neutral stance on the conflict, it sees the purchase of discounted Russian crude as economically prudent.
India’s Energy Needs vs. Global Politics
India, the world’s third-largest oil consumer, has repeatedly emphasized that it will make decisions based on national priorities and affordable energy access. Government insiders argue that pressures from the West, including threats of sanctions or diplomatic isolation, won’t deter India from exploring diverse sources of crude.
Geopolitical Implications Moving Forward
The latest comments from Miller underscore rising tension as the US gears up for its 2024 presidential elections. Trump’s camp seems keen on recalibrating foreign alliances, especially those where trade imbalances or strategic disagreements persist.
Observers say Miller’s statements could be part of a broader campaign strategy to project strength on foreign policy, even at the cost of alienating key allies.
An Uneasy Road Ahead
With both nations standing their ground, the road ahead for US-India relations appears rocky. India’s continued oil trade with Russia, paired with Trump’s aggressive policy posture, may lead to diplomatic friction. However, both sides recognize the mutual strategic importance of their relationship.