By: Rakshit Aggarwal, New Delhi.
India has once again made it clear that its energy policy will remain firmly guided by national interests, despite intensifying criticism from the United States over its purchases of Russian crude oil.
Speaking to Russia’s state-run TASS news agency, Indian Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar emphasized that India’s energy security—vital for its 1.4 billion people—will not be compromised under external pressure.
“Indian companies will continue buying from wherever they get the best deal. That’s what the current situation is,” Kumar said, underscoring that market forces and the needs of India’s population dictate the country’s strategy.
US Criticism and India’s Response
Washington has repeatedly accused New Delhi of indirectly financing Russia’s war in Ukraine by purchasing discounted crude oil from Moscow. India, however, has categorically denied the allegation.
Ambassador Kumar said India’s actions are no different from those of other nations. “There are other countries, including the US itself and in Europe, trading with Russia,” he pointed out.
He further argued that India’s cooperation with Russia has contributed to stabilizing global oil markets, ensuring uninterrupted supply lines in turbulent times. “Providing 1.4 billion people with energy security is our goal. That has been made possible in part by our collaboration with Russia, as well as with a number of other nations,” Kumar added.
Tariff Tensions with the US
The issue has taken another twist with the US administration under Donald Trump announcing steep tariff hikes on Indian goods—doubling duties to nearly 50%—along with an additional 25% surcharge targeting India’s purchase of Russian crude.
Calling the move “unfair, unreasonable, and unjustified,” Kumar said New Delhi would take all measures to safeguard its national interest.
Strong Words from Jaishankar
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also pushed back strongly against Washington’s criticism. Speaking at an event on Saturday, he remarked:
“It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other people of doing business. That’s rather interesting. Don’t purchase oil or refined goods from India if you have any issues doing so. No one coerces you into buying it. However, America and Europe purchase it, so if you don’t like it, don’t buy it.”
India’s Energy Balancing Act
India has consistently defended its oil trade with Russia, arguing that energy affordability and availability take precedence over geopolitical rhetoric. Officials maintain that India is acting within global market norms and that its trade is transparent, legal, and in line with national interest.
At present, Russia remains one of India’s key energy suppliers, but New Delhi has also diversified its oil imports from the Middle East, Africa, and the US.
For India, the message is clear: as global uncertainties continue, it will prioritize the best deal to fuel its economy, regardless of geopolitical criticism.
