US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India would stop purchasing oil from Russia, calling it a “big step” toward isolating Moscow economically.
“I was not happy that India was buying oil, and he assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same thing,” Trump told reporters at a White House event.
“I think they were great… Modi is a great man,” Trump said. “He (Sergio Gor) told me that he (PM Modi) loves Trump… I have watched India for years. It’s an incredible country and every single year you would have a new leader… My friend has been there now for a long time and he’s assured me there will be no oil purchases from Russia,” Trump made his comments while discussing U.S. ambassador-designate Sergio Gor’s recent meeting with Modi.
While India is yet to release a statement, Trump’s remarks, if borne out by official confirmation, could indicate a major adjustment in India’s energy strategy.
