'Trying To Ban India...': Russian FM Lavrov Slams US Oil Curbs As India Refuses To Bend On Energy

The global energy battle has spilled into open politics. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the US of attempting to ban India and other partners from buying Russian oil, alleging sanctions, tariffs and tanker restrictions are being used to force countries into purchasing costlier American energy. The comments follow Donald Trump’s executive order easing tariffs on Indian goods while keeping scrutiny on Russian crude purchases intact. India, however, has refused to alter course. New Delhi has reiterated that its energy sourcing decisions are driven by availability, affordability and national interest, not external pressure. As Washington tightens its oil diplomacy and Moscow cries foul, India’s stance signals strategic autonomy amid intensifying geopolitical competition over energy routes and supply chains.