India PM Modi Defiant as Trump Steps Up Pressure on Russia Oil Purchases – Bloomberg

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1. Summary: Modi Defiant as Trump Pressures India Over Russian Oil Purchases

   Amid escalating tensions with the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to economic self-reliance and refused to halt Russian oil imports, despite US President Donald Trump’s pressure and newly imposed 25% tariffs on Indian exports.

   Key Highlights:

   No Decision to Stop Russian Oil: Modi’s government has not issued any directive to stop buying Russian crude. Both public and private refiners continue to make independent, commercial decisions regarding oil imports.

   Modi’s Defiant Stand: At a rally in Uttar Pradesh, Modi emphasized buying Indian-made goods and protecting local farmers, industries, and youth employment. His message reinforced the “Make in India” push amid global instability.

   US Frustration and Tariffs: Trump criticized India’s close ties with Russia and membership in BRICS, suggesting India is supporting Putin’s war in Ukraine. He imposed 25% tariffs and warned of further penalties if oil imports from Russia continue.

   India’s Strategic Response:

   India views its ties with Russia as a “time-tested partnership.”

   The foreign ministry stressed that India’s bilateral relations shouldn’t be judged through the lens of third countries.

   India expects US negotiators to visit soon but is unwilling to compromise on sensitive sectors like dairy and agriculture in trade talks.

   US Concerns: Trump’s deputy chief of staff, Stephen Miller, accused India of unfair tariffs, abuse of the US immigration system, and significant Russian oil purchases—almost as much as China.

   No Immediate Oil Shift: Though internal scenario planning has begun, India has not made concrete moves to shift away from Russian crude, contradicting Trump’s claim that India might stop.

   Market Reaction: Indian equities, rupee, and bonds rose after oil prices dropped due to an OPEC+ production increase announcement, benefiting India as a net fuel importer.

   Strategic Implications: Analysts say India is unlikely to make big concessions under pressure. Its foreign policy decisions are guided by domestic interests, not US expectations.

   —

   India’s Position in Brief:

   Russian oil imports to continue for now.

   No compromise on agriculture/dairy in trade talks.

   US tariffs criticized, but India remains firm on independent economic policy.

   Modi leveraging nationalism and economic self-reliance to counter external pressure.

   India is carefully balancing economic and strategic interests while resisting pressure to align with US foreign policy objectives.

2. Release the Epstein files

3. Anyone know why Trump has seemingly changed his views about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine?

   2022:

   > Trump calls Putin ‘genius’ and ‘savvy’ for Ukraine invasion

   https://www.politico.com/news/2022/02/23/trump-putin-ukraine-invasion-00010923

   > Trump has a history of complimenting the Russian leader, calling him “smart,” a “strong leader” and more over the years.

   https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2025-04-14/the-literally-dozens-of-times-donald-trump-has-praised-vladimir-putin

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