In one of the sharpest rebukes yet from the Trump administration, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller accused India of undermining global efforts to stop Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to import oil from Moscow. Speaking on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Miller said, “It is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia.”
He added, “People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil. That’s an astonishing fact.”
Miller’s remarks highlight growing US frustration with New Delhi’s decision to maintain trade ties with Moscow despite repeated calls to sever economic support that Washington argues fuels the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Although he acknowledged that former President Donald Trump values the US-India relationship, Miller underlined the need for a “real” approach. “President Trump, all options are on the table to deal diplomatically, financially and otherwise with the ongoing war in Ukraine, so we can achieve peace,” he said.
India Stands Firm on Russian Oil; Modi Rejects Pressure Amid Tariff Row
Despite the mounting US pressure, Indian government sources reiterated on Saturday that New Delhi will continue buying oil from Russia. The Indian government has not issued any directive to stop or curtail purchases, with both public and private refiners free to source crude based on commercial decisions.
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Reinforcing India’s stance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during a rally in Uttar Pradesh, “Now, whatever we buy, there should be only one scale: we will buy those things which have been made by the sweat of an Indian.” He also emphasized that global instability should not compromise India’s economic interests.
The remarks came as the Trump administration imposed a 25 percent tariff on Indian exports and hinted at further measures if oil imports from Russia continue. Miller also accused India of imposing “massive” tariffs on American goods and “cheating” the US immigration system.
The sharp shift in tone marks a notable departure from past US diplomacy that often overlooked India’s ties with Russia in favor of strengthening its role as a counterbalance to China. Now, Trump appears to be recalibrating his Indo-Pacific strategy as he intensifies pressure on Russia and its global partners.
