Thu Sep 18 16:50:53 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Trump Claims Sanctions on India to End Ukraine War, Praises Modi Relationship**

**WASHINGTON D.C.** – In a press conference on Thursday, US President Donald Trump made a series of contradictory statements regarding India, Russia, and the ongoing war in Ukraine. While answering questions about countries purchasing Russian oil, Trump claimed to have imposed sanctions on India as a means of pressuring Russia to end the conflict.

“But I sanctioned them,” Trump stated, referencing India’s purchase of Russian oil. “If the oil price comes down, very simply, Russia will settle.”

The President also emphasized his close relationship with India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “I am very close to India, I am very close to the Prime Minister of India.” He mentioned speaking with Modi to wish him a happy birthday and praised the Prime Minister’s response.

The remarks come amidst apparent improvement in US-India relations, after tariffs imposed by Trump in July that penalized India for buying Russian oil. Talks on a bilateral trade agreement between the two countries were recently held and described as positive, with both sides expressing a desire to finalize a trade deal soon.

Later, Trump tweeted about his phone call with Modi, thanking him for his support in ending the war. Modi responded, expressing commitment to strengthening the US-India partnership and supporting efforts towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.

The mixed messaging from President Trump has raised questions about the true nature of US policy toward India and its role in the Ukraine conflict.

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