‘Modi Knew I Was Unhappy,’ Says Trump as India Reduces Russian Oil Imports Amid Tariff Pressure

Amid escalating trade tensions between India and the United States, former US President Donald Trump has claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was aware of Washington’s displeasure over India’s purchase of Russian oil. Trump stated that India is now reducing its imports from Russia largely due to tariff pressure imposed by his administration.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while travelling from Florida to Washington DC, Trump said India wanted to “make him happy” by cutting back on Russian oil purchases. He described Modi as a “very good man” and asserted that the US has the power to raise tariffs on India “very quickly,” warning that such a move would be damaging for New Delhi.

Trump’s remarks come as India faces cumulative tariffs of up to 50 per cent on exports to the US. Following the imposition of a 25 per cent tariff in August last year, Indian oil imports from Russia have steadily declined since September 2025.

US Senator Lindsey Graham, who accompanied Trump, said the tariffs were the “chief reason” behind India’s decision to buy substantially less Russian oil. Graham also spoke about his proposed tariff bill that seeks to impose 500 per cent duties on imports from countries continuing to purchase Russian oil, arguing that economic pressure is essential to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Graham claimed that Indian officials have been actively seeking tariff relief. However, there was no official response from the Indian government to his remarks. India and the US are currently engaged in negotiations for a trade deal, with both sides aiming to conclude an agreement at the earliest to stabilise bilateral trade relations.