India, Sept. 19 -- Washington

US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his close relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint press conference with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, while expressing frustration that other western allies continue purchasing Russian oil despite Washington's willingness to sanction even close partners like India.

"I am very close to India, I am very close to the PM of India. I spoke to him the other day. I wished him a happy Birthday. We have a very good relationship," Trump said during his state visit to the United Kingdom.

However, Trump used India as an example of his commitment to pressuring Russian oil customers, expressing frustration that others were unwilling to take ag...