Trump Praises PM Modi, Says He Doesn't Want to “Ruin His Political Career”

US President Donald Trump made headlines with an unusual comment about Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a media interaction at the White House on Wednesday (local time). While praising PM Modi, President Trump remarked that “he loves Trump,” but immediately added that the phrase should not be misinterpreted, saying he wouldn’t want to “ruin his political career.”

In response to reporters’ questions, Trump said, “Modi is a great guy. He loves Trump,” before clarifying, “I don’t want you to take the word ‘love’ in any way. I don’t want to ruin his political career.” Trump went on to describe India as an “incredible country” and called Modi a “time-tested leader.”

“I’ve been watching India for years,” Trump said. “It’s an amazing country. Every year you get a new leader—some stay for months—but this goes on year after year, and my friend Modi has been there for a long time.”

Trump highlighted that in India’s neighboring countries, governments often change quickly, whereas Modi has maintained steady leadership for years.

Earlier, Trump had mentioned that Prime Minister Modi assured him India would halt the purchase of Russian oil. “He has assured me that no oil will be purchased from Russia,” Trump said, adding that though the shift cannot happen immediately, the process would be completed soon.

Reacting to Trump’s claim, India’s Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that local consumers remain central to its crude oil import policy. The ministry stated that the U.S. administration has shown intent to strengthen energy cooperation with India and that discussions are ongoing.

The ministry noted, “India is a major importer of oil and gas. Protecting the interests of Indian consumers in the volatile energy scenario has always been our priority.” It added that India’s energy policy is guided by the twin objectives of maintaining stable energy prices and secure supplies, supported by a broad and diversified sourcing approach.

According to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), India currently ranks as the second-largest buyer of Russian oil, just after China.