Days after US President Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened more penalties if it continues business with Russia, Trump’s top aide has accused India of indirectly financing Russia’s war in Ukraine. The comments were made by Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller on Sunday and marks one of the Trump administration’s sharpest criticisms yet of a major US partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

“What he [Trump] said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia,” Miller said on Fox News interview. He added that India is “basically tied with China” in terms of Russian oil imports.

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India’s dependence on Russian oil

The Indian Embassy in Washington has not responded to the allegations, but Indian government sources told Reuters on Saturday that New Delhi intends to continue its energy trade with Russia despite US pressure. India has steadily increased its dependence on Russian crude since 2022, now sourcing over a third of its oil imports from Moscow.

Trump has threatened to slap 100% tariffs on imports from countries that continue buying Russian oil unless a major peace deal in Ukraine is reached. Despite the sharp rhetoric, Miller softened his stance somewhat by acknowledging the strong rapport between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling their relationship “tremendous”.

Who is Stephen Miller?

Stephen Miller has emerged as a dominant force in Trump’s second administration. Now serving in dual roles as Deputy Chief of Staff and Homeland Security Adviser, the 39-year-old hardliner is widely regarded as the architect of the administration’s toughest domestic and foreign policies. 

From speechwriting to policy coordination, Miller has broad authority and considerable influence across the Trump White House.