Regarding the Russian Oil Claim, Shashi Tharoor: Trump should refrain from predicting India’s actions

Shashi Tharoor on the Russian Oil Claim: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor responded to US President Donald Trump’s assertion that India would drastically cut its imports of Russian oil by the end of the year by denouncing him for announcing on New Delhi’s behalf on Thursday.

As New Delhi does not speak for Washington, DC, Tharoor urged President Trump to refrain from announcing India’s choices to the world in an interview with ANI.

“I don’t think it’s appropriate for Trump to be making announcements about India’s decisions,” the Congress MP said. I believe that India will declare its choices. We keep the world in the dark about Trump’s intentions. Trump shouldn’t be dictating to the world what India will do, in my opinion.

Citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pledge, US President Donald Trump said earlier on Wednesday (US local time) that India would drastically cut its purchases of Russian oil by the end of the year.

India will reduce Russian oil imports “down to almost nothing” by the end of the year, according to President Trump, who also said that the process would be “gradual.”

As you are aware, India assured me that they would cease. You cannot just halt it; it is a process. However, they will be almost worthless by the end of the year. That is a significant amount—nearly 40% of the oil. India has been excellent. Speaking to reporters at the White House while welcoming NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Trump said, “I spoke to Prime Minister Modi yesterday, and they have been absolutely great.”

India, meanwhile, emphasizes that protecting consumer interests is its top concern and rejects any deal. Secure supply and steady pricing are given top priority in the nation’s energy strategy.

Trump has called on New Delhi to diversify its energy sources and has imposed 50% tariffs on Indian exports.