US Tariff: India Hits Back at US and EU Over Russian Oil Trade Allegations – MEA Issues Strong Rebuttal

India’s clear and strong response reflects a growing confidence on the global stage. The country is focused on protecting its economy, ensuring energy security, and upholding strategic freedom. Western criticism, especially when it comes from nations doing similar trade, is unlikely to affect India’s decisions.

MEA Issues Strong Statement Against Western Criticism

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has firmly rejected the recent accusations from the United States and the European Union over its continued oil imports from Russia. In a detailed statement, the MEA clarified India’s stand and called out the double standards of Western countries.

Why India Imports Oil from Russia

The MEA explained that India started buying Russian oil after traditional suppliers diverted exports to Europe following the Ukraine conflict. At the time, the US even supported India’s move, saying it helped stabilize global energy markets. Now, the criticism seems not only unjust but also hypocritical.

National Interest Comes First

India’s energy imports are guided by a simple principle: provide affordable and predictable energy costs to its citizens. The MEA made it clear that energy security is a top priority, especially in today’s unstable global markets. Strategic decisions are based on national interest and legal trade practices.

Europe’s Trade with Russia: Bigger Than India’s

In a revealing comparison, the MEA pointed out that European Union’s trade with Russia reached €67.5 billion in 2024, much higher than India’s trade volumes with Russia in any year. Despite this, India is unfairly targeted while Europe continues to do business with Moscow.

New Records in Russian LNG and Goods Trade

Europe also imported record levels of LNG (liquefied natural gas) from Russia in 2024. Their trade includes not only energy but also fertilizers, chemicals, minerals, steel, and machinery. This exposes the inconsistency in the criticism India faces over oil imports.

What About the US?

The United States, too, has continued importing specific products from Russia, including uranium hexafluoride, palladium metals, fertilizers, and chemicals. The MEA questioned the fairness of their criticism when Western economies are still dependent on Russian resources.

India Will Defend Its Economic Security

India has made it clear that it will continue to take all necessary steps to protect its economic interests. The MEA emphasized that targeting India is unjustified, and the country will make decisions that suit its domestic and global responsibilities.

Legally and Ethically Justified

The Indian government stressed that all its actions are lawful and justified. India’s trade practices follow international rules and reflect its status as a growing economic power. The government will not compromise on strategic autonomy or sovereignty.

Strategic Independence: A Foreign Policy Goal

This statement highlights a larger policy shift—India is now more committed than ever to strategic independence. Whether it's energy policy or global trade, India will act according to its own interests, and not simply to please international powers.