India challenges West over Russia oil trade hypocrisy

(MENAFN) India has pushed back against US and EU criticism regarding its oil trade with Russia, accusing Western nations of engaging in even greater business with Moscow themselves. The West has repeatedly pressured India over its energy dealings, with US officials claiming that India’s large-scale oil imports effectively fund Russia’s war in Ukraine. India has rejected these accusations, stating that its imports are driven by national interests and the need to provide affordable energy to its population.

An Indian government spokesperson told RT that these purchases have also helped stabilize global oil prices. The spokesperson described the criticism of India as unjustified and unreasonable, emphasizing that India, like other major economies, will protect its national and economic security.

India highlighted the ongoing and extensive trade between Western countries and Russia, despite their pledges to cut ties. According to the spokesperson, the EU’s trade with Russia in goods and services far exceeds India’s, with record imports of Russian LNG and trade in sectors such as fertilizers, chemicals, steel, and machinery.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump threatened to significantly increase tariffs on India, accusing it of buying large volumes of Russian oil and profiting by reselling it. He had earlier warned of imposing 100% tariffs on countries trading with Russia unless a peace deal is reached.

India also pointed out that the US continues to import Russian commodities like uranium, palladium, and various chemicals. Since 2022, Russia has become India’s largest crude oil supplier, while India has grown into a key exporter of refined fuels to the EU, much of which originates from Russian crude.

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