US President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed he was unaware of American imports of Russian chemicals and fertilizers, following criticism from India over what it called “unjustified” targeting for its trade with Moscow.
When asked by ANI during a press briefing at the White House about the continued US imports of Russian commodities, Trump responded, “I don’t know anything about it. We will have to check.”
The remark comes amid a deepening diplomatic row after Trump announced plans to “substantially raise” tariffs on Indian goods, accusing India of profiting from discounted Russian oil while allegedly turning a blind eye to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“India is not only buying massive amounts of Russian oil, they are then, for much of the oil purchased, selling it on the open market for big profits. They don’t care how many people in Ukraine are being killed by the Russian war machine,” Trump posted Monday on Truth Social.
India strongly rebutted the US President’s statement, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) calling the comments “unjustified and unreasonable.” In a pointed response, New Delhi highlighted ongoing US and EU trade with Russia, questioning the selective criticism aimed at India.
“The United States continues to import from Russia uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry, palladium for its EV industry, fertilizers, as well as chemicals,” the MEA said.
India explained that its imports from Russia, particularly oil, were driven by energy security needs after traditional suppliers diverted volumes to Europe post-Ukraine conflict. The statement also noted that Western nations had initially encouraged India to step up such imports to help stabilize global markets.
“Our imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs for Indian consumers. They are a necessity compelled by the global market situation,” the statement emphasized.
India further pointed out that the European Union’s bilateral trade with Russia in 2024 alone reached €67.5 billion, including 16.5 million tonnes of LNG—exceeding India’s trade volume with Russia.
“Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the MEA said.
As of now, ANI has reached out to President Trump’s press team for a formal clarification regarding US-Russia trade and awaits a response.
