Russia has said it has “no reason” to believe that India has changed its position on buying Russian oil, rejecting claims from the United States that New Delhi agreed to halt crude imports from Moscow, Financial Express reported.
The remarks come amid discussions surrounding a US-India trade deal, as Washington links energy purchases to broader trade negotiations. While US officials have said India committed to stopping Russian oil imports, New Delhi has not issued any formal confirmation or denial.
At a weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said India’s continued purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and contributes to stability in global energy markets.
“We have no reason to believe that India has changed its stance on buying Russian hydrocarbons. India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and helps maintain balance in the international energy markets,” she said, according to PTI.
Zakharova also criticised remarks made by US President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying there was nothing new in such claims and accusing Washington of trying to dictate terms to independent nations.
The comments followed a recent phone conversation between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump. After the call, both sides announced a reduction in US tariffs on Indian goods to 18% from 50%. The move also included the removal of a 25% tariff imposed last August over India’s purchase of Russian oil, PTI reported.
Subsequently, Rubio said India had committed to ending its imports of Russian crude. Trump, while announcing the trade agreement, also stated that India had agreed not to procure oil from Russia.
India has not officially confirmed or denied the US claims. However, officials in New Delhi have repeatedly said that national interest remains the guiding factor in decisions related to energy procurement.
Russia has earlier accused the US of using tariffs, sanctions, and other measures to discourage countries, including India, from buying Russian oil. Zakharova also criticised European allies of Ukraine, saying they were not interested in pursuing a peaceful resolution.
