Trump Aide Accuses India of Funding Russia’s War via Oil Purchases

A senior aide to U.S. President Donald Trump has accused India of indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to buy Russian oil, escalating Washington’s pressure on New Delhi to halt such imports.

Stephen Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff and one of his closest advisers, said on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures that “it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia.” He stressed that India is now “basically tied with China” in terms of Russian oil purchases, calling the statistic “astonishing.”

The remarks mark some of the strongest criticism yet from the Trump administration toward India, a key U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific. Despite U.S. warnings, Indian officials told Reuters over the weekend that they will maintain oil imports from Moscow, citing energy needs and strategic autonomy.

The tensions come as a 25% tariff on Indian products took effect Friday, linked to New Delhi’s purchases of Russian energy and military equipment. Trump has also threatened to impose tariffs of up to 100% on imports from countries that continue buying Russian oil unless Moscow agrees to a significant peace deal with Ukraine.

Still, Miller tempered his comments by emphasizing Trump’s “tremendous” relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders have often highlighted strong bilateral ties, even amid disputes over trade and foreign policy.

The Indian Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The standoff underscores the geopolitical and economic challenges for the U.S. as it seeks to isolate Russia while balancing relations with key allies like India.