New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply criticised the United States for pressuring India over its continued purchase of Russian crude, arguing that Washington itself maintains significant energy trade with Moscow. His remarks came during his official visit to India, where energy cooperation and geopolitical tensions dominated high-level discussions.
Putin questioned why India’s energy ties with Russia are repeatedly scrutinised when the United States still imports Russian nuclear materials and other energy-linked products. He asserted that no country should be punished for safeguarding its own energy security, especially when global markets remain volatile. According to him, India’s decision to buy Russian oil is both economically rational and entirely legitimate within international trade norms.
The Russian leader’s comments come amid growing U.S. pressure on New Delhi, including tariff measures targeting key Indian exports. Washington argues that India’s purchases weaken global efforts to limit Russia’s revenue streams during the Ukraine conflict. However, Indian officials have strongly rejected this stance, insisting that New Delhi will continue to prioritise national interests when making energy decisions.
Indian Oil Corporation, the country’s leading state-operated refiner, has also confirmed that it will maintain its procurement of Russian crude, noting that the blend suits existing refinery configurations and helps keep domestic fuel prices stable. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar previously emphasized that India has “clear red lines” when it comes to external pressure, stating that nations dissatisfied with India’s choices are free to adopt their own policies, but cannot dictate India’s energy strategy.
The debate has wider geopolitical implications. As India navigates complex ties with both Washington and Moscow, Putin’s forceful defense of India underscores Russia’s determination to preserve its position as a key energy partner. For New Delhi, the controversy reinforces its long-standing pursuit of strategic autonomy balancing major power interests while securing affordable energy for its 1.4 billion citizens.
Putin’s pointed question “If America can buy oil from Russia, why can’t India?” has now become a focal point in the global conversation on sanctions, sovereignty and the politics of energy trade, highlighting once again the tensions between national interest and international pressure.