New Delhi slams Washington and EU over ‘hypocrisy’ on Russian oil, defends imports as economic necessity
India’s Strong Rebuttal to US and EU Criticism
In a sharply worded statement, the Indian government has countered U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose steep tariffs on Indian goods over its import of Russian oil.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that India’s crude oil imports from Russia are driven by necessity, while critics like the US and EU continue trading with Russia out of convenience, not compulsion.
🧾 Key Points from India’s Official Response:
- “Imports are a necessity compelled by global market realities.”
- “Criticising nations are themselves engaging in extensive trade with Russia.”
- “India began buying Russian oil after Europe diverted traditional suppliers.”
- “US actively encouraged India’s move at that time for global energy stability.”
🌍 Hypocrisy in Global Trade? India Highlights US & EU Deals with Russia
India listed staggering trade figures to prove its point:
- 🇪🇺 EU–Russia trade in 2024:
- Goods trade: €67.5 billion
- Services: €17.2 billion
- Record LNG imports: 16.5 million tonnes in 2024
- Products traded: Energy, fertilizers, chemicals, machinery, steel
- 🇺🇸 US–Russia trade includes:
- Uranium hexafluoride (nuclear sector)
- Palladium (used in electric vehicles)
- Fertilizers and chemicals
“This is far more than India’s total trade with Russia,” the MEA emphasized.
⛽ Why India Turned to Russian Oil
Before 2022, India’s crude oil came largely from the Middle East. That changed after:
- Russia invaded Ukraine in Feb 2022
- Western countries boycotted Russian oil
- Russia offered deep discounts
- Europe diverted Gulf suppliers for its own needs
“India was left with no choice but to explore Russian oil,” said the MEA.
🛡️ India Prioritizes Economic Security
India asserted that it would continue to make independent decisions based on national interest:
“Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.”
Trump’s Tariff Threat
Earlier, former President Donald Trump warned:
“I will be substantially raising the tariff paid by India to the USA.” — via Truth Social
He has already announced a 25% import duty on Indian goods from August 7, and warned of 100% tariffs for countries buying Russian oil unless a peace deal is struck.
Also Read : Trump Threatens to Significantly Raise Tariffs on India Over Russian Oil Purchases
