In diplomacy, what isn't said often matters more than what is. But on Wednesday, India's Ministry of External Affairs left nothing to interpretation. Asked about President Trump's claim that India had agreed to halt Russian oil purchases as part of the landmark trade deal, the MEA's response was a model of polite, unmistakable clarity: No, we did not.
The Claim That Sparked a Firestorm
During a press briefing at the White House, Trump told reporters that India had "agreed to move away from Russian energy" as part of the tariff reduction agreement. The claim sent shockwaves through energy markets. India is the world's third-largest oil consumer, and Russian crude now makes up over a third of its imports — up from barely 2% before 2022.
The MEA's rebuttal came within hours. "Safeguarding energy security for India's 1.4 billion citizens continues to be the foremost priority," the spokesperson said. "India's energy partnerships are determined by national interest."
Why This Matters
The diplomatic correction reveals the tightrope India walks. The trade deal — slashing US tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18% — was a genuine breakthrough. But allowing Washington to claim credit for dictating India's energy choices would set a dangerous precedent.
Cutting off Russian crude overnight would spike domestic fuel prices by an estimated 15-20%, analysts warn. For a government that has staked its credibility on stable inflation, that is simply not an option.
The Bigger Picture
This isn't a rupture. Both governments have strong incentives to keep the trade deal narrative positive. But it is a reminder that even between friends, sovereignty has boundaries — and India's energy security is one line that New Delhi will not allow anyone else to draw.