India Defends Russian Oil Imports, Rebukes US Criticism on Trade

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has defended India’s energy trade with Russia, stating that these oil purchases are in the best interests of both India and the international community. In response to criticism from the United States and other Western nations, Jaishankar affirmed India’s right to make its own trade decisions. He directly addressed critics by suggesting that if they disapprove of India’s trade practices, they should not engage in trade. He pointed out that other countries also purchase Russian oil. Jaishankar’s comments come amid strained trade relations with the US, which has imposed tariffs on Indian goods. Jaishankar noted that India’s purchases contributed to stabilizing oil prices in 2022. He also discussed his recent visit to Russia, where he co-chaired the 26th session of the India-Russia International Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological, and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), and highlighted India’s commitment to increasing trade with Russia and its clear stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Furthermore, Jaishankar mentioned ongoing trade negotiations with the US, highlighting India’s commitment to protecting the interests of its farmers and small businesses. He also commented on the evolving relationships between the US, China, and India.