A sharp geopolitical exchange has erupted after the United States claimed India is gradually reducing Russian oil imports and expanding alternative sourcing, including purchases from America. Speaking before a congressional panel, Assistant Secretary Paul Kapur framed India’s diversification as aligned with US objectives, though he declined to detail enforcement mechanisms tied to sanctions. Republican lawmaker Keith Self warned that indirect flows through traders and blended shipments could blunt Western pressure on Moscow. Russia responded swiftly. Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that except for Donald Trump, no leader has announced any Indian decision to halt Russian crude purchases. He reaffirmed the strength of the Russia India strategic partnership, citing recent high level agreements. The episode reflects mounting crosscurrents in US India relations, where energy security, Ukraine war sanctions and Indo Pacific cooperation intersect in complex and sensitive ways.