Trump Aide Accuses India of Financing Ukraine War Through Russian Oil Purchases
A top aide to Donald Trump, Stephen Miller, has stated it is "not acceptable for India to continue financing" the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil. In a Fox News interview, Miller highlighted that India is nearly tied with China as a top buyer of Russian oil, while also criticizing India's high tariffs and alleging "cheating on immigration policies." The comments escalate recent rhetoric from Trump, signaling potential diplomatic and trade friction between the US and India.
Unpacked:
India has ramped up Russian oil purchases because it receives significant discounts compared to market prices, helping reduce its energy import costs, keep domestic fuel prices low, and contain inflation. Before the Ukraine war, Russian oil was a tiny share of Indian imports, but it now makes up 35-40% of India's crude intake, benefiting Indian refiners and the economy.
India has increased its crude oil imports from the United States by 51% in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reflecting a strengthening energy partnership between the two countries. Despite this surge, India has stated it will continue purchasing oil from Russia, rejecting claims that it has stopped Russian imports.
The US, under President Trump, has announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened unspecified penalties for India’s continued purchases of Russian oil and weapons. While the tariff has been officially notified, details of the additional penalties related to Russian oil imports have not yet been specified.
In June 2025, India was the second-largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, accounting for EUR 4.5 billion in imports (mainly crude oil). China remains the largest buyer, with 38% of Russia’s export earnings from its top five importers, while India’s share is substantial and growing, reflecting its central role in Russia’s global energy trade.