New Delhi / Moscow, August 2025:
India has once again defended its decision to continue buying oil from Russia, stressing that national interest and energy security come above external pressure.
Indian Ambassador to Russia *Vinay Kumar, in an interview with Russia’s state news agency *TASS, clarified that Indian oil companies purchase crude strictly on commercial grounds. “Wherever the best deal is available, Indian companies will buy. That is the current reality,” he said.
India’s Stand on Russian Oil
- Energy security for 1.4 billion citizens is India’s top priority.
- Oil trade with Russia has contributed to stability in global markets.
- India insists it will not back down under foreign criticism.
Ambassador Kumar also dismissed Washington’s claim that New Delhi’s imports were indirectly financing the Ukraine war. “Such accusations are unfair. India will take every necessary step to protect its national interests,” he remarked, while noting that several Western nations also maintain trade with Russia.
Jaishankar’s Sharp Response to U.S. Remarks
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded strongly to U.S. concerns. “It is strange that those who do business themselves accuse others. If you have a problem buying refined oil from us, don’t buy it. Nobody is forcing you,” he said.
His statement highlighted India’s consistent position: strategic autonomy and affordable energy outweigh external pressure.
Background
- Since the Russia-Ukraine war began, Russia has become one of India’s largest crude suppliers.
- India has leveraged discounts on Russian oil, saving billions of dollars while keeping domestic fuel prices stable.
- The U.S. and EU have repeatedly urged India to scale down imports, but New Delhi continues to resist.