US President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that India is set to begin importing crude oil from Venezuela rather than relying on supplies linked to Iran. Speaking to journalists aboard Air Force One while traveling to Florida, Trump said an understanding has already been reached, describing it as a strategic move aimed at redirecting India’s energy sourcing.

Although India once relied heavily on Iranian crude, long-standing US sanctions have significantly limited those imports over the years. Trump’s remarks come amid growing indications from Washington that India could soon receive approval to restart Venezuelan oil purchases.

The United States has been urging India to explore Venezuelan crude as an alternative to Russian oil, aligning with broader Western efforts to curb financial support to Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Trump also hinted that China might pursue similar arrangements with the US to access Venezuelan energy supplies.

Additionally, Trump asserted increased American influence over Venezuela’s political landscape, claiming that Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has been allowed to function as an interim leader under conditions tied to oil access and diplomatic cooperation.

Meanwhile, Rodriguez recently held discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on expanding collaboration in sectors such as energy, trade, and investment. Both leaders reportedly agreed to strengthen long-term bilateral ties and elevate India–Venezuela relations.

This marked Modi’s first interaction with Rodriguez following a recent US-led military operation that resulted in the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife.

Historically, India was one of Venezuela’s largest oil buyers, importing significant volumes before sanctions imposed in the late 2010s sharply reduced trade. Indian refiners scaled back purchases to avoid secondary penalties, leading to a steep decline in oil commerce between the two nations.