A senior aide to President Donald Trump accused India of funding Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to purchase oil from Moscow, intensifying pressure on one of Washington’s key Indo-Pacific allies.

Speaking on Fox News, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller stated, “What he [Trump] said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing oil from Russia.” Miller emphasized the scale of India’s trade with Moscow, noting that “people will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil.”

Sharpest Criticism Yet

Miller’s remarks mark one of the strongest criticisms to date by the Trump administration against India, a country often praised by the U.S. for its strategic importance in balancing China’s rise. Though Miller tempered his comments by describing Trump’s relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as “tremendous,” the administration has made clear that economic consequences will follow.

A 25% tariff on Indian goods was enacted last Friday due to its ongoing military and energy purchases from Russia. Trump has also warned of imposing 100% tariffs on imports from nations continuing energy ties with Moscow unless Russia agrees to a major peace deal with Ukraine.

India Defiant Despite Threats

The Indian government has not issued an official comment, but sources in New Delhi told Reuters that India will persist with its oil imports from Russia regardless of U.S. threats. India has repeatedly argued that its energy policies are based on national interest and market dynamics.

The sharp rhetoric comes as the Trump administration seeks to tighten the global financial and energy noose around Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.