Russian oil may complicate India-US trade deal, Indian foreign ministry makes key statement

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The issue of purchasing Russian crude oil has once again come into focus amid talks on the proposed India–United States trade deal. Responding to questions, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) made it clear that the country’s energy security remains the government’s top priority, and all related decisions are taken with this objective in mind.

The MEA stated that India follows a policy of diversifying its energy sources to meet domestic requirements, keeping market conditions and changing global circumstances in view. However, the government did not clearly state whether the import of Russian oil would continue or be stopped.

Government avoids direct answer on Russian oil

On repeated questions regarding Russian oil purchases, the government has so far avoided giving a direct yes-or-no response. The Ministry of Commerce has termed the matter as falling under the jurisdiction of the External Affairs Ministry. On Saturday, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also said that the response on this issue should come from the MEA.

Energy needs of 1.4 billion Indians a priority

The MEA spokesperson reiterated a statement made during the weekly briefing on Thursday, saying that the government has repeatedly clarified in public that ensuring energy security for 1.4 billion Indians is its highest priority. Decisions related to energy imports are taken keeping this objective in mind.

This clarification came shortly after the United States removed a 25 percent punitive import tariff imposed on India over its purchase of Russian crude oil.

US claims India will stop buying Russian oil

Since announcing an interim trade framework with India, the United States has repeatedly claimed that India has committed to stopping the purchase of Russian oil. On Saturday, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order formally ending the 25 percent tariff linked to India’s Russian oil imports.

In the order, President Trump said he had received additional information and recommendations from senior officials regarding India’s efforts. According to him, India has agreed to stop direct or indirect imports of Russian oil, increase purchases of US energy products, and expand defence cooperation over the next ten years.

Test of diplomatic balance

As of now, India has not officially confirmed any decision to halt Russian oil imports. This indicates that while India is working to strengthen trade and strategic ties with the United States, it is also carefully maintaining a balance to safeguard energy security and national interests.