Russia sent a decisive signal to countries criticizing India for purchasing Russian raw materials and threatening to impose tariffs. The Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, stated that India purchases oil from Russia solely for its own development needs, not to assist Moscow.
Alipov gave a strong response to the criticism from Western countries regarding the continuous purchase of crude oil from Russia. In an interview with a television channel, he emphasized that India buys oil for the purpose of national development, considering the well-being of its population.
This statement came against the backdrop of growing criticism from the US and other Western states regarding India's deals with Russian oil. After the start of the war in Ukraine in 2022, India increased its purchases of cheap crude oil from Russia, becoming one of the largest buyers of Russian raw materials.
The ambassador noted that India has previously shown a willingness to defend its interests in the face of external pressure and is capable of maintaining its position. He criticized the imposition of sanctions and tariffs by Western countries against those who continue to trade with Russia.
Alipov stated that instead of offering India more favorable alternatives, methods of pressure are being used. He added that no one can offer India a better oil deal, which is why measures such as tariffs and restrictions are being introduced.
Furthermore, he assured that Russia is ready to supply India with the necessary amount of oil according to its needs.
This issue is sensitive because the US is considering taking stricter measures against major countries purchasing Russian energy. Recently, a proposal was introduced in the US Senate for a bill that allows for the imposition of up to 100% tariffs on imports from the five largest buyers of Russian crude oil or natural gas. India is among the largest buyers of Russian oil, and the implementation of these steps could increase pressure on India.
India has previously faced American tariffs related to the purchase of Russian oil and has consistently stated its right to provide its population with affordable and reliable energy.
After meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated that whether India continues or stops buying Russian oil will not determine the outcome of the war in Ukraine. He stressed that the conflict, which has lasted five years, will not end based on whether any country buys oil, minerals, metals, or fertilizers; resolving this confrontation lies in the realm of dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiations.
Russia is the largest oil supplier to India
In August, Russia remained the largest supplier of crude oil to India. Although India's purchases of Russian oil in June and July decreased compared to record figures, in August India imported about 20.8 thousand barrels of crude oil daily from Russia. This figure was 26.3 percent lower than the July record of 28.2 thousand barrels per day. Nevertheless, in August, Russian oil accounted for approximately 45 percent of India's total crude oil imports, allowing it to maintain its lead among suppliers despite the decrease in volumes.