New Delhi: Russia on Thursday defended its oil trade with India after U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that New Delhi had agreed to halt purchases of Russian crude. Moscow emphasized that its energy supplies benefit India’s economy while maintaining that it would not intervene in matters between Washington and New Delhi.
“India and the U.S. are independent in their decisions, and we do not interfere in those issues. Our oil supplies are very beneficial for the Indian economy and the welfare of the Indian people,” said Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov.
Trump, speaking to reporters at the White House on Wednesday, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “assured” him that India would stop buying Russian oil. “I was not happy that India was buying oil. And he (Modi) assured me today that they will not be buying oil from Russia. That’s a big stop,” Trump stated.
Responding to the remarks, India reaffirmed its independent energy policy, stressing that protecting domestic consumers amid global market volatility remains its top priority.
“India is a significant importer of oil and gas. It has been our consistent priority to safeguard the interests of the Indian consumer in a volatile energy scenario. Our import policies are guided entirely by this objective,” said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
Jaiswal also highlighted that India has been broadening its energy partnerships over the past decade, including with the United States. “Where the U.S. is concerned, we have for many years sought to expand our energy procurement. This has steadily progressed in the last decade. The current administration has shown interest in deepening energy cooperation with India. Discussions are ongoing,” he added.
The comments come amid renewed geopolitical tension surrounding global energy flows, with Russia seeking to maintain key Asian markets and the U.S. urging allies to limit purchases of Russian oil.
