India Will Cut Russian Oil Imports by 60% by Year-End: Donald Trump Sticks to Claim
Dateline: NEW DELHI / WASHINGTON, October 23, 2025 —
US former President Donald Trump has reiterated his claim that India will reduce its imports of Russian crude oil by roughly 60% by the end of this year, signalling a major shift in energy trade dynamics and mounting diplomatic pressure on New Delhi. (Hindustan Times)
Background
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India has become one of the largest buyers of Russian crude since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, importing nearly 35-40% of its crude from Russia in 2024. (Wikipedia)
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Trump has previously taken a confrontational stance by threatening high tariffs on Indian goods and linking trade benefits to India scaling back Russian oil purchases. (AP News)
Key Developments
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At a recent press conference, Trump stated: “By the end of the year, they’ll be down to almost nothing, about 40 percent of the (Russian) oil.” (Hindustan Times)
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Despite the claim, Indian officials have not confirmed any formal pledge to cut 60% of Russian oil imports by year-end. Analysts caution that such a rapid reduction would be extremely difficult given long-term contracts and the price advantage Russian crude offers. (Reuters)
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A possible trade deal is reportedly under negotiation between the United States and India that could link tariff relief for Indian exports in exchange for India reducing Russian crude imports. (The New Indian Express)
Reactions & Impact
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India’s government emphasises its energy import decisions are driven by market factors—availability, grade, and pricing—not solely by diplomatic pressure. (The Guardian)
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Should India attempt a 60% cut by year-end, it would have major implications:
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For Russia: Loss of a major crude buyer could force deeper discounts or redirect exports to alternative markets.
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For India: Refiners may face supply disruptions or higher costs if they shift away from discounted Russian crude.
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For US-India relations: The claim strengthens US leverage over India, potentially reshaping trade and energy diplomacy.
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Outlook
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While the claim sets a bold expectation, the practical feasibility remains uncertain. Experts say Indian refiners are tied into long-term contracts and buying cheaper Russian grades has been a key cost strategy.
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Monitoring through the remainder of 2025 will reveal whether India actually reduces imports to the extent claimed, or whether the cut will be more modest and gradual.
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The unfolding dynamic may mark a turning point in how energy policy, trade diplomacy and geopolitical strategy intersect between India, Russia and the United States.
— The Vagabond News
Meta Title: India to Cut Russian Oil Imports by 60% by Year-End, Trump Says
Meta Description: Donald Trump says India will slash Russian crude imports by about 60% by year-end — India has not yet confirmed the pledge and analysts caution rapid cuts face hurdles.
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