US President Trump claims that tariffs on India’s Russian oil purchases prompted Moscow to seek talks with Washington, noting that India is losing its status as a major customer for Russian oil. Despite the tariff threats and potential economic repercussions, India, represented by the Indian Oil Corporation, has reiterated its commitment to buying Russian oil based on economic factors, dismissing the idea of halting imports. The Ministry of External Affairs labeled the tariffs unjustified, emphasizing India’s right to safeguard its economic interests. This situation underscores India’s strategic autonomy in energy sourcing, balancing economic pragmatism against geopolitical pressures from the US.