Fri Sep 05 22:43:58 UTC 2025: **Trump Walks Back Claim of US Losing India and Russia to China, Cites Disappointment Over Russian Oil Purchases**

WASHINGTON – Former US President Donald Trump has softened his stance after a recent post on his Truth Social platform suggested the United States had “lost” India and Russia to China. Addressing reporters at the White House on Friday, Trump stated, “I don’t think we have,” referring to the alleged loss of influence.

His initial post, which followed a meeting of India, Russia, and China at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in Tianjin, was sharply worded: “Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest China. May they have a long and prosperous future together!”

However, Trump clarified that his concern stems from India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, expressing disappointment and highlighting the significant 50% tariffs the US has imposed on Indian goods. “I’ve been very disappointed that India would be buying so much oil from Russia. I let them know that. We put a very big tariff on India- 50 per cent, a very high tariff,” he stated. Despite this, Trump emphasized his positive relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The remarks come amid broader criticism of India’s economic ties with Russia. Former Senior Counsellor for Trade and Manufacturing Peter Navarro accused India of profiteering from Russian oil and said that India’s tariffs cost Americans’ jobs, while White House Economic Advisor Kevin Hassett voiced the administration’s disappointment with India’s continued funding of Russia’s war in Ukraine through oil imports.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs declined to comment directly on Trump’s remarks but affirmed that India remains engaged with the US on trade issues. India has previously maintained that its relationships with other countries stand independently and should not be viewed through the lens of a third nation.

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