New Delhi – Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has clearly told reporters that questions about India’s purchase of Russian oil will be answered only by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). He made this statement right after the United States reduced tariffs on many Indian goods from 25% to 18% through a new trade framework.

The development comes just two days after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on February 6 that removed the extra 25% penalty tariff earlier imposed on Indian imports because of Russia oil purchases. Trump had claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had agreed to cut down Russian oil imports. But Goyal refused to comment on that part and directed all such queries to the MEA.

What the New Trade Deal Means

Speaking to the media, Goyal described the agreement as a big win for Indian farmers and exporters. He said many agricultural products from India will now enter the American market at zero duty. At the same time, India has not given any concessions on sensitive items like dairy and certain farm products coming from the US.

“Agricultural products from Indian farmers will be exported to the United States at zero duty,” Goyal said. “No tariff concessions have been granted for agricultural products from US farmers entering the Indian market.”

He added that this deal will help India move faster towards its target of $2 trillion in total exports. Sectors like textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, pharmaceuticals, and handicrafts are expected to benefit the most.

The joint statement also mentions that India will buy up to $500 billion worth of US energy, aircraft, technology, and coking coal over the next five years. Goyal made it clear that India will buy only what suits its own requirements and at competitive prices.

Trump’s Claim on Russian Oil

When Trump announced the deal, he said India had agreed to stop buying Russian oil. He posted on social media that Prime Minister Modi had promised to buy more oil from the US and possibly Venezuela instead. The White House executive order repeated this point. It said India “has committed to stop directly or indirectly importing Russian Federation oil.”

The order also warned that if India starts buying Russian oil again, the US can bring back the 25 percent extra tariff.

Many Indian officials did not directly agree or disagree with Trump’s words. They simply pointed to the MEA for any comment on foreign policy and energy matters.

MEA’s Clear Stand on Energy Security

The Ministry of External Affairs has repeated its position many times. Spokesman Randhir Jaiswal said on February 5, 2026:

“Insofar as India’s energy sourcing is concerned, the government has stated publicly on several occasions that ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion Indians is the supreme priority of the government. Diversifying our energy sourcing in keeping with objective market conditions and evolving international dynamics is at the core of our strategy.”

In simple words, India will buy oil from wherever it gets the best price and supply. The government will not let 1.4 billion people suffer high fuel costs just because of pressure from any country.

Goyal also said the same thing in Parliament and in interviews. He told reporters that buying oil from the US could be in India’s interest if the price is right. But the final call on oil belongs to the MEA, not the Commerce Ministry.

Why Russian Oil Matters to India

After Russia started its war in Ukraine in 2022, many Western countries stopped buying Russian oil. India stepped in and bought large amounts at lower prices. This saved Indian refineries billions of rupees and kept diesel and petrol prices stable for common people.

At one point, Russia supplied more than 40 percent of India’s oil imports. Now the share has come down because of new US sanctions and higher prices, but Russia is still an important supplier.

If India suddenly stops buying Russian oil, it will have to find new sources. Oil from the US or Venezuela may cost more. That could push up prices at petrol pumps and affect transport, farming, and industry.

Many experts say India must keep its options open. They call this “strategic autonomy” – the right to decide what is best for its own people.

Reactions in India

Some opposition leaders and analysts said the government is “passing the buck” by sending all oil questions to the MEA. They feel the trade deal has quietly accepted US pressure on energy policy.

Others praised the government. They said getting tariff relief without hurting farmers is a smart move. Supporters also pointed out that India has increased defence ties with the US and will buy more American goods. This shows a balanced relationship.

Goyal himself said there is “no trust deficit” between the two countries. He stressed that the deal protects Indian interests fully.

What Happens Next?

The interim framework will now turn into a full agreement. Goyal said a formal signing could happen in March 2026. Both sides will keep talking on the bigger Bilateral Trade Agreement.

The US has said it will watch India’s oil buys closely. If India buys Russian oil again, the extra tariff can come back. But India has not promised to stop buying from Russia. It has only promised to buy more from America if the deal is good.

Many Indians hope the government will continue to put people first. Cheap fuel, good export markets, and strong ties with both Russia and America – that is the balance India wants.

FAQs

1. Will India really stop buying Russian oil?

No official announcement has been made. Piyush Goyal said the MEA will answer this. The MEA has said energy security for 1.4 billion Indians comes first. India will buy oil from the cheapest and most reliable sources.

2. What did Trump’s executive order say?

It removed the extra 25% tariff on Indian goods. But it said the US will monitor Indian oil imports. If India buys Russian oil again, the tariff can return.

3. How does the deal help Indian farmers?

Many Indian farm products will enter the US market at zero duty. Sensitive items like dairy and certain crops are protected. Goyal said farmers will gain, not lose.

4. What about the $500 billion purchase from the US?

This is India’s plan over five years for energy, aircraft, technology, and other goods. It does not mean India will buy everything at once. Purchases will depend on price and need.

5. Is this deal good or bad for India?

Most experts say it is positive because tariffs are lower and exports can grow. But many also want India to keep buying cheap Russian oil to protect fuel prices.

6. When will the new tariffs start?

The 18% rate is expected soon. The full agreement may take a few more weeks or months.

India has always said it will follow its own national interest. The coming days will show how New Delhi balances trade gains with energy needs and old friendships.