Trump Discusses Trade and Diwali Greetings with Modi Amid Tensions Over Russian Oil

Trump's Diwali Greetings and Trade Talks with Modi

On Tuesday, President of the United States, Donald Trump, revealed that he had a conversation with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to convey his Diwali wishes, emphasizing that their discussion primarily revolved around trade matters. Trump reiterated his assertion that India would be reducing its imports of Russian oil.

During a press briefing at the White House, Trump described his dialogue with Modi as a “great conversation.” He stated, “We talked about trade and various topics, but trade was the main focus. Modi is very keen on this.”

Energy trade was also a significant aspect of their discussion, with Trump mentioning that Modi assured him of India's commitment to limit oil purchases from Russia due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

“He’s not going to buy much oil from Russia,” Trump remarked, expressing a shared desire for the war to conclude.

Trump has consistently claimed that India's oil purchases are financially supporting Russia's military actions.

His comments came shortly after he stated that Modi had indicated India would cease buying Russian oil, warning that failing to do so would result in “massive tariffs.”

On October 15, Trump had claimed that Modi agreed to stop these imports “within a short period,” labeling it as a significant decision.

In response, India's Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement that neither confirmed nor denied Trump's assertions, emphasizing the importance of stable energy prices and secure supplies in India's energy policy.

However, Ministry Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal later clarified that, according to his information, no phone call had occurred between Modi and Trump that day.

On the same day, Trump also mentioned that he had previously discussed the importance of avoiding conflicts with Pakistan with Modi.

“The involvement of trade allowed me to address this,” Trump noted. “We have no war with Pakistan and India, which is a very positive development.”

.@POTUS: "Let me also extend our warmest wishes to the people of India. I just spoke to your Prime Minister @narendramodi today. We had a great conversation... he’s a great person, and he’s become a great friend of mine over the years." pic.twitter.com/Q0HpT0Fcor

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) October 21, 2025

Relations between India and Pakistan have been tense, particularly following India's military operations on May 7, which targeted what it claimed were terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for a terror attack.

The Pakistan Army responded with artillery fire along the Line of Control, resulting in civilian casualties.

On May 10, India's Foreign Secretary announced that the Pakistani military operations chief had reached out to propose a cessation of hostilities.

This announcement coincided with Trump's claim that India and Pakistan had agreed to a ceasefire, which he stated was facilitated by the United States.

Trump has repeatedly asserted that he played a crucial role in brokering this ceasefire, claiming he pressured both nations by threatening to halt trade.

New Delhi has dismissed these claims, asserting that the ceasefire was not a result of external mediation.

On Wednesday, Modi expressed gratitude to Trump for his call and Diwali wishes, stating, “On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms.”

Thank you, President Trump, for your phone call and warm Diwali greetings. On this festival of lights, may our two great democracies continue to illuminate the world with hope and stand united against terrorism in all its forms.@realDonaldTrump @POTUS

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 22, 2025

US Tariffs on India

The overall tariff rate imposed on India stands at 50%. This includes a 25% reciprocal duty introduced on August 7, followed by an additional 25% punitive tariff on August 27.

Following the announcement of these tariffs, New Delhi expressed that it was “extremely unfortunate” for the US to impose additional tariffs on India for actions that other nations are also undertaking in their national interests.

Despite this, trade discussions between the two countries have recently gained momentum.

A delegation of Indian officials, led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal, visited Washington DC last week for trade negotiations, as reported by a local media outlet. Last month, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also led a trade delegation to New York.