Tensions between India and the US just took a sharp turn, and the target this time is India’s oil diplomacy. A top aide to former US President Donald Trump has accused New Delhi of indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to buy oil from Moscow. Yes, the claim is as explosive as it sounds — and it’s already shaking diplomatic chatter.
🔥 What exactly did Trump’s aide say?
Speaking on Fox News, Stephen Miller, Trump’s powerful deputy chief of staff, made a strong statement:
“It is not acceptable for India to continue financing Russia’s war with Ukraine by purchasing oil from Moscow.”
Miller also added that India is now neck and neck with China when it comes to buying Russian oil — calling it an “astonishing fact” that many Americans would be shocked to learn.
His remarks come days after Trump re-upped pressure on India to cut energy ties with Russia.
🇮🇳 India stays silent—but steady
So far, the Indian Embassy in Washington hasn’t officially responded. But according to Reuters, Indian government insiders have made it clear—India won’t stop buying oil from Russia, regardless of US pressure.
Why? Because energy security and price stability are a priority, especially when global crude prices remain volatile.
🧾 Tariffs, threats, and trade heat up
To add more fire to the mix, the US under Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian imports starting Friday. Trump didn’t hold back — he labelled India as Russia’s largest energy buyer, and warned that any country continuing oil trade with Moscow may face 100% tariffs unless Russia agrees to a peace deal with Ukraine.
That’s not just diplomacy — that’s a full-blown trade threat.
🌍 What’s the big picture here?
While India has always maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, this sudden escalation in rhetoric from Trump’s camp could influence India-US ties — especially if Trump regains power in the 2024 elections.
But here’s a question many in Delhi are asking quietly — Can the US afford to alienate the world’s fastest-growing economy over oil diplomacy?
🤔 Final thoughts:
India has always walked a tightrope between strategic autonomy and international pressure. With the US election season heating up and Trump turning up the volume, will India stay firm? Or will pressure from Washington reshape its oil strategy?
Only time — and barrels — will tell.
