ISLAMABAD (Web-Desk); A senior aide to U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday sharply criticized India for continuing to buy oil from Russia, accusing New Delhi of indirectly funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine. The comments come as Trump intensifies pressure on India to halt energy imports from Russia.
Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff at the White House and a key advisor to Trump, said during a Fox News appearance:
“What President Trump said clearly is that it’s unacceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia.”
Miller further pointed out the scale of India’s imports, saying:
“People will be shocked to learn that India is virtually tied with China in buying Russian oil. That’s an astonishing fact.”
The remarks represent some of the Trump administration’s strongest public criticism of India, a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region.
India has so far stood firm, with government sources telling Reuters that oil imports from Russia will continue despite American pressure. In retaliation, a 25% U.S. tariff on Indian goods came into effect Friday, linked to India’s defense and energy ties with Russia.
Trump has also warned of slapping 100% tariffs on imports from nations that continue oil trade with Russia unless a major peace deal is reached with Ukraine.
Despite the tough talk, Miller acknowledged Trump’s strong relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it “tremendous.”
