US President Donald Trump on Thursday claimed he had imposed “sanctions” on India to pressure Russia into ending its war in Ukraine, while simultaneously stressing his close ties with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Delhi.

Speaking at a joint press conference with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, Trump was asked whether more sanctions were needed to squeeze Moscow. He responded by arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin would end the war if oil prices fell.

“When I found out that the European Nations were buying oil from Russia… And, as you know, I am very close to India, I am very close to the Prime Minister of India. I spoke to him the other day, I wished him a happy birthday. We have a very good relationship. He put out a beautiful statement, too… But I sanctioned them,” Trump said.

The remark comes amid mixed messaging from Washington on India’s purchase of Russian oil. In July,

Trump announced a 50% tariff, including what he described as a “penalty” on Russian oil imports, sparking tensions.

However, bilateral trade talks held on Tuesday were described as “positive” by both sides, with New Delhi confirming fresh efforts to conclude an agreement soon.

Trump’s latest comments also appeared at odds with some in his administration, who have accused India of helping “fund” Moscow’s war through oil purchases.

Hours after the press conference, Trump struck a different tone in a social media post, thanking Modi for his support.

“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump posted.

Prime Minister Modi responded in kind, reiterating his commitment to closer ties and referencing the Ukraine conflict.

“Thank you, my friend, President Trump, for your phone call and warm greetings on my 75th birthday. Like you, I am also fully committed to taking the India-US Comprehensive and Global Partnership to new heights. We support your initiatives towards a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict,” the PM wrote.

The latest exchange underscores both the growing convergence between Washington and New Delhi, and the contradictions in Trump’s rhetoric as he attempts to burnish his credentials as a dealmaker on global conflicts.