- India’s foreign ministry responded to sharp criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump over its ties with Russia.
- MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal called the India-Russia partnership “steady and time-tested.”
- Trump alleged both nations were leading “dead economies” and cited high Indian tariffs.
- India emphasized its independent foreign policy and reaffirmed strong U.S.-India relations.
- Russia remains India’s top crude oil supplier, accounting for over 35% of imports.
India Pushes Back on Trump’s Remarks
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday dismissed any suggestion of strain in its longstanding relationship with Russia. According to The Times of India, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India’s bilateral ties are guided by national interest, not third-party influence.
Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country. India 🇮🇳 and 🇷🇺Russia have a steady and time-tested partnership.
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) August 1, 2025
– MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal@MEAIndia | #Russia | #India pic.twitter.com/xMcA2hbREz
Trump’s “Dead Economies” Swipe
On his Truth Social platform, President Trump sharply criticized India’s economic alignment with Russia. He accused both countries of being protectionist and economically stagnant, saying:
— Donald J. Trump, via Truth Social
As reported by The Times of India, Jaiswal responded by highlighting India’s strong and stable engagement with both the U.S. and Russia based on independent interests.
India Reaffirms Strategic Ties with the U.S.
When questioned about India’s relationship with the United States, Jaiswal reiterated the depth and durability of bilateral cooperation. “India and the United States share a comprehensive global strategic partnership anchored in shared interests, democratic values, and robust people-to-people ties,” he said, as quoted by The Times of India.
He emphasized that the relationship has weathered multiple global transitions and remains forward-looking in agenda and execution.
Defense, Sanctions, and Energy: India Stands Firm
Jaiswal confirmed that all defense purchases are based solely on India’s national security calculations. He refused to comment on Trump’s provocative suggestion that India might seek oil from Pakistan. “I have no comments to offer in this matter,” he said.
On the issue of U.S. sanctions targeting Indian companies trading with Iran, Jaiswal noted, “We have taken note of the sanctions. We are looking into it,” according to The Times of India.
Russia Still India’s Top Oil Supplier
Jaiswal also responded to claims that Indian refiners had scaled back on Russian crude. He stated that India’s approach to energy procurement is guided by global market dynamics and national requirements.
“We are not aware of any specifics,” he said. As reported by The Times of India, Russia currently accounts for over 35% of India’s oil imports, up from just 0.2% prior to the Ukraine conflict.
Commerce Minister: “National Interest Comes First”
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal addressed Parliament on Thursday, assuring lawmakers that India would continue to safeguard its core economic and strategic interests amid international pressure.
“Government gives utmost priority to the safeguarding of welfare of farmers, labourers, entrepreneurs, industrialists, exporters, MSMEs and stakeholders of the industrial sector,” Goyal said. “We will take all necessary steps to safeguard our national interest.”
India Responds to Trump’s Tariff Threat, Vows to Protect National Interests
Trump to Impose Penalties on India Over Russian Arms Purchases, Adds to 25% Tariff Threat
Follow Virginia Times for regular news updates. Stay informed with the latest headlines, breaking stories, and in-depth reporting from around the world.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
