Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - A senior US official has said that President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi continue to share a “very good” relationship despite disagreements over India’s purchase of Russian oil. The official expressed confidence that both countries will resolve the tariff dispute through continued discussions.

The dispute began after Washington imposed additional tariffs on Indian goods in response to New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian crude. The United States has argued that buying Russian oil weakens efforts to pressure Moscow, while India has defended its energy policy and described the tariffs as unfair and unjustified. Despite the disagreement, the two governments remain engaged in negotiations on trade and wider economic cooperation. Both sides have previously discussed reducing trade barriers and improving market access, although important differences remain over energy imports, tariffs and the terms of a broader trade agreement.

The personal relationship between Trump and Modi is being viewed as an important channel for managing the dispute. US officials believe their direct engagement can prevent the tariff row from damaging broader cooperation in areas such as defence, technology, investment and regional security. India’s position on Russian oil is also linked to energy security and affordability. New Delhi is expected to weigh the economic consequences of continued imports against the possibility of lower tariffs and stronger trade ties with Washington.

The statement from the US official suggests that Washington wants to separate the tariff disagreement from the larger India-US partnership. However, the relationship will depend on whether both sides can reach a practical compromise on Russian oil purchases, market access and the future structure of bilateral trade.