WASHINGTON: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Tuesday (local time) claimed that India has committed to ending its purchases of Russian oil and will instead source crude oil from the United States, potentially from Venezuela under the newly announced trade agreement between the two countries.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Leavitt stated that following direct talks between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, New Delhi agreed not only to halt purchases of Russian oil but also to increase imports of American energy.
She added that India may also consider buying oil from Venezuela, a move she said would benefit the American economy.
“As you all saw yesterday, the President struck another great trade deal with India. He spoke with Prime Minister Modi directly; they share a very good relationship. India committed to not only no longer purchasing Russian oil but also buying oil from the United States, and perhaps also from Venezuela, which we know will now have a direct benefit on the United States and the American people,” Leavitt said.
Leavitt also asserted that India has called for further economic cooperation, including USD 500 billion in investment in the United States, covering sectors such as transportation, energy, and agriculture.
“In addition to that, Prime Minister Modi committed to USD 500 billion of investments into the United States, including for transportation, for energy, and for agricultural products as well. This is another great trade deal,” the Press Secretary added.
Earlier on Monday, Trump said that the US and India “have agreed to a trade deal” with Washington reducing the reciprocal tariff from 25 percent to 15 percent “out of friendship and respect” for PM Modi.
In his Truth Social post, Trump referred to his conversation with PM Modi earlier in the day, noting that the Prime Minister was one of his closest friends and a powerful, respected leader of India.
