India sharply rejected NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte’s warning of “100% secondary sanctions” over its trade with Russia, cautioning against Western “double standards” and reaffirming its focus on national energy security. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, addressing a media briefing, said India’s energy procurement is driven by market dynamics and global circumstances, not external pressures.

“We are closely following developments. Securing our people’s energy needs is an overriding priority. We caution against double standards,” Jaiswal stated, responding to Rutte’s remarks in Washington, where he urged India, China, and Brazil to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin for Ukraine peace talks or face economic penalties.

Rutte’s comments echoed US President Donald Trump’s threat of “biting” tariffs on Russian trade partners if no Ukraine peace deal is reached within 50 days. India, a major buyer of discounted Russian crude oil, has maintained strategic autonomy, abstaining from UN resolutions condemning Russia while engaging in dialogue with all parties.

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Critics note NATO’s lack of authority to impose sanctions and highlight Europe’s own continued reliance on Russian energy, with EU nations importing 19% of their gas from Russia in 2024 despite reductions. India’s stance underscores its rejection of coercive diplomacy, prioritizing economic stability amid volatile global energy markets.

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