Background to Trump's Remarks
United States President Donald Trump has recently asserted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made him aware that India would not be purchasing oil from Russia. This is what he said while addressing journalists at the White House. Trump further added that the United States believes that money generated through the sale of Russian oil is being spent in a way to finance the current war, which has been initiated by President Putin. Trump further added that India's move to halt the import of oil from Russia is a massive step in the right direction.
Trump also claimed that China would also stop buying Russian oil. Even though there are policy differences that exist, he declared India to be an American friend. But the Indian government is tight-lipped over making an official statement against these allegations.
Reaction and Questions of Rahul Gandhi
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi responded with anger to the comment by Trump. He asserted that Prime Minister Modi was cowed by the earlier US President and criticized the government's strategy in taking foreign policy decisions. In a public post, Rahul Gandhi asked a series of questions, which included the following:
- Why is India waiting for Trump to make the declarations on its Russian oil imports?
- Why are we sending congratulations in spite of evident denials?
- Why was the US visit of the Finance Minister canceled?
- Why did not the Prime Minister attend the Gaza peace summit hosted in Sharm-El Sheikh, Egypt?
Rahul Gandhi added that he did not object to Trump going on and on about "Operation Sindoor," though he refused to comment further.
India's Position on Oil Trade
India is willing to purchase oil from the United States, if the cost is affordable, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal stated. He further stated that India used to import fuel worth some 22–23 billion dollars previously. Now, there are chances of increasing imports up to the level of almost 12–13 billion dollars annually.
Agarwal’s remarks are significant as trade discussions between India and the United States are ongoing. These developments align with Trump’s recent statements about Modi’s assurance on stopping oil imports from Russia.
Current Diplomatic Context
The exchange between the two presidents and the observations of Rahul Gandhi placed the foreign policy agenda of India at center stage. While the US seeks greater cooperation in energy, India is still keeping its balancing act of economic and strategic interests going. The absence of any official response from New Delhi indicates that the administration might be weighing the implications of Trump's public statements.
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