New Delhi, August 5, 2025 — India is doubling down on its decision to continue purchasing Russian oil, dismissing increasing criticism and economic threats from the United States and European Union. Despite public pressure—from tariffs to pointed accusations—India remains resolute in prioritizing its energy security and national economic interests.
Indian Government Points to Hypocrisy
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has responded sharply to Western criticism, labeling it “unjustified and unreasonable” and accusing both the U.S. and EU of operating a double standard. While they single out India for importing Russian oil, they themselves continue substantial trade with Russia, including LNG, fertilizers, uranium, and critical industrial commodities.
The ministry emphasized that India’s reliance on Russian crude stems from market realities: traditional suppliers in the Gulf rerouted exports to Europe, pushing India to secure alternatives to safeguard energy prices for its large population.
The Numbers
Indian imports from Russia: About 1.75 million barrels per day in early 2025, making India the second‑largest buyer of Russian seaborne crude after China .
Financial volume: China leads globally with around $219.5 billion in Russian oil imports by mid‑2025, followed by India at approximately $133.4 billion and Turkey at $90.3 billion.
U.S. Trade Pressure and Tariff Threats
U.S. President Trump has publicly attacked India’s oil strategy, accusing it of profiting from discounted Russian crude and showing indifference to Ukrainian suffering. He has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian exports and warned of further increases, insulating against countries that engage in Russian energy trade.
Despite these threats, Indian officials have stated that they will “take all necessary measures to safeguard national interests” and will not alter course under pressure.
Strategic Stance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has framed the episode as a reaffirmation of India’s independent foreign policy and economic sovereignty. Addressing the public, Modi urged greater support for domestic manufacturing under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaigns, rejecting external interference in trade decisions.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal reinforced this view, asserting, “Our bilateral relationships with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen from the prism of a third country”.
Broader Implications
India’s firm stance raises critical questions over the future trajectory of U.S.–India relations. Analysts warn of potential economic fallout, including falling exports to the U.S.—which could shrink by up to 30% in the upcoming fiscal year if tariffs deepen.
Still, some diplomats in Washington see India’s defiance as a tactical plank in trade negotiations, believing America may soften as part of a broader bilateral deal. India, for its part, considers its partnership with the U.S. crucial for balancing China’s rise—even as it bristles at unilateral pressure over oil purchases.
Summary Table
| Topic |
Key Takeaway |
| India’s Position |
Will continue buying Russian oil based on economic necessity. |
| Western Criticism |
President Trump and EU leaders have threatened tariffs and sanctions. |
| Energy Security |
Russian oil remains vital for keeping domestic fuel prices stable. |
| Diplomatic Message |
India rejects external pressure, emphasizing sovereign choice. |
What Comes Next?
India faces a pivotal choice: bow to escalating Western pressure and risk energy disruption—or accept U.S. tariffs and uphold its vision of independent policymaking. With trade concessions and geopolitical stakes at play, the evolving dispute may shape not only energy markets but also the future contours of India-U.S. strategic collaboration.
