Zelenskyy Says India Mostly Supports Ukraine Amid Russian Oil Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in an exclusive interview with Fox News during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, expressed confidence in India’s alignment with Ukraine, stating that the nation is “mostly with us” in the ongoing conflict with Russia. His remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil, which US President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized as indirectly funding Moscow’s war efforts since the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

Addressing a question from Fox News anchor Bret Baier about the role of India and China in sustaining Russia’s economy, Zelenskyy acknowledged the complexities surrounding India’s energy imports. “I think India mostly with us. Yes, we have these questions with energy, but I think that President Trump can manage it with Europeans, make more close and strong relations with India,” he said. He emphasized the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure India does not “withdraw” from supporting Ukraine, adding, “And I think, we have to do everything not to withdraw Indians and they will change their attitude to the Russian energy sector.”

The question posed by Baier was direct: “China, India, they’re all contributing here; European nations, the President said, need to get off oil, but need to do it with the US. Do you think that that is going to happen?” Zelenskyy’s response highlighted a nuanced approach to India compared to other nations. On China, he noted, “I’m sure with China, it’s more difficult because it’s not for today. It’s not in their interest to not support Russia.” He was even more definitive about Iran, stating, “I think Iran will never be on our side, because we’ll never be on the side of the United States,” reflecting the deep geopolitical divides at play.

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Zelenskyy’s comments build on his recent address to the UN Security Council, where he called out China’s role in propping up Russia. “China is here – a powerful nation on which Russia now depends completely. If China truly wanted this war to stop, it could compel Moscow to end the invasion. Without China, Putin’s Russia is nothing. Yet too often, China stays silent and distant, instead of active for peace,” he said. While India was not directly mentioned in that speech, Zelenskyy’s Fox News remarks signal a deliberate effort to court New Delhi, recognizing its growing global influence as the world’s most populous nation and a key player in energy markets.

India’s stance has been one of pragmatic neutrality, driven by economic imperatives. Since Western sanctions disrupted global oil markets following Russia’s invasion, India has capitalized on discounted Russian crude, which now accounts for a significant portion of its energy imports. Indian officials argue that these purchases stabilize global energy prices and protect the country’s economy, particularly for its 1.4 billion citizens. However, this policy has drawn criticism from the US and its allies, who contend that such trade bolsters Moscow’s ability to sustain its military campaign.

Zelenskyy’s optimism about India aligns with his broader diplomatic strategy to rally Global South nations against Russia. His mention of Trump’s potential role underscores the US’s influence in shaping energy policies, particularly through strengthened transatlantic cooperation. Reports suggest the US and Europe are exploring alternatives, such as increasing liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to India, to reduce its reliance on Russian oil. Such a shift could align India more closely with Western efforts to isolate Moscow economically.

The Ukrainian leader also expressed a positive outlook on his interactions with Trump, noting a “clear message” of support. “What surprised me, in a very positive way, is the clear message from Trump and America that they will stand with us until the war is over,” Zelenskyy said, signaling his intent to “finish this war as soon as possible.” These remarks reflect ongoing discussions at the UNGA, where energy security, sanctions, and peace negotiations remain central themes.

As the Russia-Ukraine conflict nears its fourth year, Zelenskyy’s outreach to India highlights the delicate balance of diplomacy, energy politics, and global alliances. With Trump’s administration poised to influence India’s energy choices, the coming months could see pivotal shifts in New Delhi’s approach, potentially strengthening Ukraine-India ties while reshaping the global energy landscape.

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