When it comes to global energy politics, India has once again found itself at the center of Washington’s scrutiny. This time, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar made it clear: New Delhi is “perplexed” by US criticism of its Russian oil imports, especially when larger buyers like China and the European Union remain relatively unchecked.
India Pushes Back Against US Narrative
Speaking at a press briefing, Jaishankar rejected the notion that India is the biggest buyer of Russian oil, calling such claims misleading and unfair. He stressed that India’s oil imports are dictated by energy security needs and affordability for its 1.4 billion citizens, not geopolitical pressures.
“If you look at the numbers, we are not the largest purchaser of Russian oil. Others are buying much more than India. Yet, the spotlight seems to always fall on us,” he said.
US Tariffs Add to Tensions
The remarks come in the backdrop of new tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration on countries engaged in oil trade with Russia. Washington argues that such purchases indirectly aid Moscow’s war efforts, but New Delhi maintains its stance that energy trade is a sovereign economic choice.
Jaishankar pointedly highlighted the double standards at play: “If principles are to be applied, then they should be applied universally, not selectively.”
Balancing Energy Security and Geopolitics
India, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, faces a massive demand for affordable energy. While the US has pushed for reduced dependency on Russian crude, New Delhi insists it cannot compromise national interest or place unnecessary burdens on its economy.
Jaishankar also noted that Indian refiners often purchase oil at discounted rates to keep domestic fuel prices in check—a move that directly benefits Indian consumers during a period of global economic volatility.
A Test of Diplomacy
This diplomatic spat underscores the broader strain in India-US relations as Washington continues to scrutinize India’s independent foreign policy stance. At the same time, it highlights New Delhi’s growing confidence in pushing back against Western pressure and carving out a pragmatic, India-first approach.
