India Defies US: We’ll Buy Russian Oil for Best Deal

India will continue to purchase oil from wherever it secures the most cost-effective deal, prioritizing its national interest and energy security, according to India’s envoy to Russia, Vinay Kumar. In an interview with Russia’s state-run TASS news agency on August 24, 2025, Kumar firmly defended New Delhi’s energy procurement strategy, particularly its imports of discounted Russian crude oil, amid escalating tensions with the United States over the issue.

The remarks come in response to sharp criticism from the US, which has accused India of indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine through its oil purchases. The Trump administration recently doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50%, including an additional 25% duty specifically targeting India’s procurement of Russian crude. Kumar called the US measures “unfair, unreasonable, and unjustified,” emphasizing that India’s trade decisions are driven by commercial considerations and the need to ensure energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens.

“Indian companies will continue buying from wherever they get the best deal,” Kumar told TASS. “Our objective is the energy security of 1.4 billion people, and India’s cooperation with Russia, along with other countries, has helped stabilize the global oil market.” He stressed that trade with Russia is conducted on a commercial basis, guided by market dynamics and mutual interests, and dismissed US accusations as inconsistent, noting that both the US and European countries also engage in trade with Russia.

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India’s reliance on discounted Russian oil began in earnest following Western sanctions on Moscow after its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. By capitalizing on lower prices, India has bolstered its energy security while maintaining that its procurement decisions are purely pragmatic. Kumar underscored that India’s approach aligns with global market practices, pointing out that other nations, including the US and European countries, continue to trade with Russia without facing similar scrutiny.

The envoy’s comments echo recent statements by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who, on August 23, 2025, sharply rebuked US criticism during an event in New Delhi. “It’s funny to have people who work for a pro-business American administration accusing other people of doing business,” Jaishankar said. “If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, don’t buy it. Nobody forces you to buy it.” He highlighted the irony of the US purchasing Indian refined products while criticizing India’s sourcing of crude, noting that Europe also continues to buy Russian energy.

The tariff dispute has strained US-India relations, already tested by earlier calls from US Vice President JD Vance for India to reduce non-tariff barriers and increase purchases of American energy and military equipment. India’s steadfast refusal to bow to US pressure reflects its commitment to safeguarding its economic and strategic interests, particularly in maintaining affordable energy supplies for its massive population.

As global energy markets remain volatile, India’s position underscores its determination to navigate international pressures while prioritizing domestic needs. Kumar reiterated that New Delhi will continue to take measures to protect its national interests, signaling that India’s energy partnerships, including with Russia, will remain a cornerstone of its economic strategy despite external criticism.

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