A top aide to former U.S. President Donald Trump has accused India of financing Russia's war in Ukraine through its continued purchases of Russian oil. Stephen Miller, who served as Deputy Chief of Staff in the Trump administration, made the remarks during a recent interview on Fox News. Miller's statements represent some of the strongest criticism leveled by the Trump administration against India, a key U.S. partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

Miller stated that then President Trump had made it clear that it was unacceptable for India to continue funding the war by buying oil from Russia. He also expressed surprise at the extent of India's oil trade with Russia, saying that many would be shocked to learn that India is almost on par with China in its purchase of Russian oil.

These comments come days after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened further penalties if India continues to do business with Russia. Trump has also warned of 100% tariffs on countries that buy Russian oil unless Moscow reaches a peace deal with Ukraine.

India has steadily increased its dependence on Russian crude oil since 2022, and now a significant portion of its oil imports come from Moscow. Despite the U.S. pressure, Indian government sources have indicated that New Delhi intends to continue its energy trade with Russia. They cite factors such as price, crude grade, logistics and inventories in their decision-making.

Trump has previously stated that he had heard India was no longer purchasing oil from Russia, a move he called a "good step". However, Indian officials dismissed this claim.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also described India's ties with Moscow as a "point of irritation", while still calling India a "strategic partner". He stressed that buying Russian oil was hurting bilateral ties.

Miller tempered his criticism somewhat by acknowledging the "tremendous" relationship between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.