MEA Remains Cautious on Russian Oil as Trump Links Tariff Relief to Import Ban

Following President Donald Trump’s executive order linking the removal of punitive tariffs to a cessation of Russian oil imports, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has maintained a strategic silence on a complete ban. Instead, the ministry reiterated on Saturday that India’s “supreme priority” remains the energy security of its 1.4 billion citizens.

The development follows the signing of a massive India-US trade deal that slashed US tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. However, President Trump’s subsequent executive order explicitly stated that the relief is conditional on India stopping the purchase of Russian oil “directly or indirectly.”

The “Energy Security” Defense

In response to direct questions about whether India has formally committed to a zero-Russian-oil policy, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stood by earlier statements:

• Market-Driven Strategy: India will continue to diversify its energy sources based on “objective market conditions” and “evolving international dynamics.”
• National Interest: The government maintains that all energy decisions are made to ensure domestic stability and affordability.

The Trump Ultimatum

The executive order issued on Friday creates a significant diplomatic tightrope for New Delhi.

• The Penalty: Trump warned that the 25% punitive levy could be reimposed if India resumes importing Russian crude.
• The Commitment: According to the White House, India has “represented that it will purchase United States energy products” instead.
• The Shift: Data shows a transition is already underway; Indian imports of Russian oil hit a 38-month low in December, while US energy imports surged by 31% in the same period.

Diversification and Geopolitics

While the government has not officially confirmed a total halt to Russian imports, people familiar with the matter suggest that India is diversifying for geopolitical leverage.

• Beyond Russia: India is reportedly exploring increased imports from the United States and Venezuela (under specific regulatory frameworks) to fill the gap.
• Economic Trade-Off: The $500 billion purchase commitment of US goods over five years—including energy and coking coal—is seen as the centerpiece of this “win-win” deal that restored competitiveness to Indian textiles and pharmaceuticals.

Current Oil Landscape (Feb 2026)