India has responded to US President Donald Trump's assertion that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him that India would cease purchasing oil from Russia. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that India's energy import policies are primarily focused on protecting the interests of Indian consumers amid a fluctuating energy market.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective." He emphasized that ensuring stable energy prices and securing supplies are the twin goals of India's energy policy.

Trump's comments came after months of pressure from Washington for New Delhi to halt its oil imports from Russia, which currently account for about one-third of India's total oil imports. He claimed, "He (PM Modi) assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big step. Now we’re going to get China to do the same thing."

In response, the Indian government reiterated its commitment to diversifying energy sources to adapt to market conditions. Jaiswal noted, "This includes broad-basing our energy sourcing and diversifying as appropriate to meet market conditions."

The MEA also mentioned ongoing discussions with the US to enhance energy cooperation, highlighting that efforts to expand energy procurement from the US have been progressing steadily over the past decade. The current US administration has shown interest in deepening this cooperation, and talks are continuing.

Overall, India remains focused on its consumer interests while navigating the complexities of international energy sourcing.