New Delhi/Moscow: Russia has rejected Washington’s claim that India has agreed to stop buying Russian crude, asserting there is no indication that New Delhi has shifted its energy policy.
Speaking at her weekly media briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Moscow sees no evidence of any change in India’s approach to purchasing Russian hydrocarbons. She emphasised that the ongoing energy trade between the two countries remains mutually beneficial and contributes to broader global market stability.
Zakharova also criticised recent comments from US leaders, accusing Washington of trying to pressure independent nations into aligning with its geopolitical agenda.
Washington’s Assertion Raises Questions
The Russian response follows statements from the United States suggesting India had committed to curbing Russian oil imports.
US Senator Marco Rubio recently claimed that New Delhi was prepared to discontinue purchases of Russian crude. Earlier this month, former US President Donald Trump made a similar remark while announcing a new trade understanding with India.
The claims surfaced after a recent phone conversation between Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following which the US announced a sharp reduction in tariffs on selected Indian exports — lowering them from 50 percent to 18 percent.
The tariff relief package reportedly included the withdrawal of a 25 percent duty that had been imposed last August over India’s continued imports of Russian oil.
India Yet to Clarify Position
India has not officially responded to the US statements. However, New Delhi has repeatedly maintained in the past that its energy sourcing decisions are guided solely by national interest and economic considerations.
Russia has previously accused the United States of employing sanctions, tariffs and other pressure mechanisms to dissuade countries, including India, from maintaining energy ties with Moscow.
Zakharova also took a swipe at European supporters of Ukraine, alleging they lack genuine commitment to advancing a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
