India has reaffirmed that its energy policy is guided solely by the welfare of its citizens, not by external political pressures. Responding to former US President Donald Trump’s remarks that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “assured” him India would halt Russian oil imports, the Ministry of External Affairs swiftly clarified that such claims do not reflect India’s stance.

Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the country’s energy strategy rests on two key principles ensuring affordable prices for consumers and maintaining stable, secure supply chains. India, he said, continues to diversify its energy sources to protect itself from global market volatility rather than make abrupt shifts in response to foreign expectations.

The clarification came after Trump’s assertion that India had already begun reducing its purchases of Russian crude. New Delhi dismissed this, reiterating that decisions regarding energy imports are made based on national priorities, particularly shielding citizens from unpredictable price surges.

While India remains open to expanding cooperation with the United States in the energy sector, it continues to assert its strategic independence. Discussions with Washington are ongoing, but officials have made it clear that any change in sourcing or supply patterns will depend on what best serves India’s domestic and economic needs.

In essence, India’s response underscores a consistent message: energy choices are sovereign decisions aimed at balancing economic stability with global diplomacy. By putting consumers first and pursuing diversified partnerships, India aims to strengthen its long-term energy security while maintaining a pragmatic and independent foreign policy.

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