Washington, August 23 — Republican leader Nikki Haley has urged India to take former US President Donald Trump’s concerns over Russian oil imports “seriously.”

Haley said India is a key partner for the United States but cautioned that differences over energy trade with Moscow could strain ties. She underlined that Trump’s remarks reflect broader concerns about Russia’s role in global conflicts and the impact of oil trade on strategic partnerships.

At the same time, Haley stressed that India’s role is crucial in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, making cooperation with Washington even more important.

India has maintained that its oil purchases from Russia are based on national interest and energy security, arguing that the imports help stabilize domestic fuel prices.

Analysts say Haley’s comments highlight how India’s energy policies could become a recurring theme in US political debate in the run-up to the 2024 elections.