India-Russia Relation / India gave a shock to America, made a big statement on relations with Russia

India-Russia Relation: India has once again clarified its stand on buying crude oil from Russia. India's Ambassador to Russia Vinay Kumar has clearly said that Indian companies will continue to buy oil from where they get the best deal. He also reiterated that New Delhi will continue to take steps to protect its national interests. This statement comes at a time when the US has criticized India for buying oil from Russia at concessional rates.

Energy security: India's priority

In an interview to Russia's state news agency 'TASS', Vinay Kumar said that India's priority is to ensure the energy security of its 1.4 billion people. He stressed that India's trade is entirely on a commercial basis. Kumar said, "Indian companies will buy from where they get the best deal. This is our current policy." This statement is a strong step towards prioritizing self-reliance and economic interests in India's energy sector.

India-Russia trade: Basis of mutual interests

Vinay Kumar described the trade relations between India and Russia as based on mutual interests and market factors. He said, "Our aim is not only to meet India's energy needs but also to contribute to bringing stability in the global oil market." India's cooperation with Russia is playing an important role in this direction. He also clarified that this step of India not only ensures the energy security of its citizens but also helps in balancing the global energy market.

America's criticism and India's response

The US has accused India that by buying oil from Russia, it is indirectly supporting Moscow's war in Ukraine. India has strongly denied this allegation. Vinay Kumar termed the US stance as "unfair and unjust" and said that India will take every necessary step to protect its national interests. He also told that many other countries including America and Europe are also doing business with Russia, then why are questions being raised only on India?

S Jaishankar's strong reply

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar had also taken a tough stand while responding to US criticism on the issue of buying oil from Russia. He had said, "It is ridiculous that a pro-trade US administration is accusing other countries of doing trade." Jaishankar clarified, "If you have a problem buying oil or refined products from India, then don't buy. No one is forcing you. But Europe and America themselves are also buying from Russia. If they don't like it, then they should not buy either."