India has strongly defended its continued import of Russian oil, calling Western criticism “unjustified and unreasonable.” The country’s Ministry of External Affairs has stated that its energy strategy is a necessity driven by global market conditions and not a political endorsement of Moscow. This stance comes after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose higher tariffs on Indian goods, accusing New Delhi of profiting from the resale of discounted Russian oil.
India’s government has pushed back against these accusations by highlighting what it calls the “double standards” of Western nations. Officials have pointed out that the US and European Union have themselves continued to trade with Russia, including in energy and other critical commodities, despite publicly opposing the conflict in Ukraine. The MEA noted that EU imports of Russian LNG hit a record high in 2024, and the US continues to import uranium and palladium from Russia. This comparison serves to justify India’s position, which is based on ensuring affordable energy for its citizens and protecting its national economic interests.
The import of Russian oil has been a key part of India’s strategy to maintain a stable economy. Russian crude now accounts for a significant portion of India’s total oil imports, a change that occurred after traditional suppliers redirected their exports to Europe. India’s government has made it clear that it will not bow to external pressure and will continue to make decisions that prioritize the welfare of its consumers and the country’s economic security, a position reinforced by Prime Minister Modi’s “self-reliant India” initiative.
Sources:
India pushes back on US, EU criticism over trade with Russia – Anadolu Ajansı
India Alleges Western Hypocrisy in Russian Oil Trade – Modern Diplomacy
‘Right to choose’: After India, Russia rebukes Trump’s tariff threat over crude oil; calls it illegitimate in strong reaction
