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The diplomat said, India will keep buying oil based on price, not politics.
The diplomat said, India will keep buying oil based on price, not politics.
What is happening?
India has signaled it won’t bow to pressure from Washington over its energy policy.
In a pointed statement, India’s ambassador to Russia declared that the country will continue buying oil based on price—not politics—despite U.S. threats of massive tariffs.
New Delhi defies Trump
U.S. President Donald Trump warned India of a steep 50% tariff unless it stops importing oil from Russia. This would come on top of existing 25% tariffs, raising concerns in Delhi.
But the Indian government appears unfazed, sticking firmly to its current energy strategy regardless of external ultimatums.
“We buy where we get the best deal”
Speaking to Russia’s TASS news agency, Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar emphasized that Indian oil companies will continue sourcing energy based on cost-effectiveness.
Rupee-Ruble payments keep oil flowing
Kumar also addressed speculation about difficulties in India-Russia trade, saying both countries have a functioning settlement system using their own currencies.
Trump’s tariffs labeled “unjustified”
The ambassador didn’t hold back in criticizing the U.S. tariff threat.
According to the BBC, Kumar described the proposed 50% duty as “unfair, unreasonable and unjustified,” highlighting India’s frustration over what it views as economic coercion from Washington.
Indian Foreign Minister hits back
India’s Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has previously also weighed in, challenging U.S. hypocrisy on the issue.
“It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other people of doing business,” he said.
Zelensky and Putin eye visits to India
Ukraine’s ambassador to India, Oleksandr Polishchuk, revealed that President Zelensky may visit later this year, though dates remain unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, Moscow has announced President Putin also plans to travel to India in the coming months.
A diplomatic tightrope
Caught between major global powers, India is carefully balancing its strategic alliances.
While maintaining strong trade ties with Russia, it is also navigating tense relations with the U.S.
