
Trump Reaffirms Closeness to Modi Amid Russia Oil Dispute
During a joint press conference in the UK with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, U.S. President Donald Trump said he is “very close to India” and “very close to the Prime Minister of India,” referring to Narendra Modi. He noted he had recently wished Modi a happy birthday and described their relationship as “very good.”
Mixed Signals Over Sanctions
Despite speaking warmly of India, Trump also pointed out that he has sanctioned India — particularly over its oil trade with Russia. He defended these sanctions, arguing they are necessary because of India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil.
Oil Prices and Policy Justification
Trump said that lowering the global price of oil is a goal, suggesting that if oil prices drop, Russia might be pressured to scale back its actions in the Ukraine war. He claimed the U.S. is producing more oil than anyone else to help achieve this.