India unlikely stops buying Russian oil after Trump-Modi call

A file image of U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Photo/Reuters

Donald Trump claimed India has agreed to stop buying Russian oil as he announced plans to cut US tariffs on Indian exports after a phone call with Indian Prime Minister Modi, yet Modi did not even mention it. Indians said this is simply impossible.

First, It’s not good for Indian interests and dignity. Russian oil comes with significant discounts, and it would be a loss for India not to buy it. Russian oil is also suitable for Indian refineries, and switching to other types would increase costs. And if India just follows whatever the U.S. says, where is the dignity of India as a sovereign nation, let alone a major power?

Second, Russia and India share a traditional friendship, and India cannot stab Russia in the back like this. If India stops buying Russian oil, it would severely impact bilateral relations. It should not be forgotten that at the end of last year, when Putin visited India, Modi personally went to the airport to welcome him. The two embraced tightly and later left the airport together in the same car...