India has hit back at US and EU criticism over its oil trade with Russia, saying Western nations do even more business with Moscow themselves.
The West has consistently pressured New Delhi over its energy ties with Moscow. US officials have accused India of “effectively” financing Russia’s conflict with Ukraine by purchasing large volumes of oil. India has strongly rejected the charge, saying its imports serve the national interest and help ensure affordable energy for its consumers.
In a statement shared with ReadNOW on Monday, an official spokesperson said the purchases have also contributed to stability in global oil prices.
”Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security,” the spokesperson said, calling the targeting of India “unjustified and unreasonable.”
New Delhi also pointed to ongoing Western trade with Moscow, despite repeated pledges to sever economic ties. “Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion,” the spokesperson claimed.
He cited data showing the EU traded €67.5 billion (over $78 billion) in goods with Russia in 2024 and €17.2 billion in services in 2023 – far more than India’s total trade with Moscow. European imports of Russian LNG also hit a record 16.5 million tons last year, with trade extending beyond energy to fertilizers, chemicals, steel, and machinery.
US President Donald Trump warned on Monday he would “substantially” raise tariffs on India and accused it of buying “massive amounts” of Russian oil and reselling it for “big profits.” He previously threatened 100% tariffs on countries trading with Russia unless Moscow agrees to a major peace deal with Ukraine.
India also noted the US continues to import key Russian commodities, including uranium for nuclear plants, palladium for EVs, and various chemicals and fertilizers.
Since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, Russia has become India’s top crude supplier. In parallel, India has emerged as a major exporter of refined fuels to the EU, much of it made from Russian-origin crude.