Russia said it will continue supplying crude oil to India at a discount, even as Washington ramps up tariffs and sanctions in an attempt to curb New Delhi’s imports from Moscow. Evgeniy Griva, Russia’s
deputy trade representative to India, confirmed that future supplies would carry an agreed reduction, saying, “There will be a 5% discount, subject to negotiation, on Russian crude oil purchases to India.” Evgeniy Griva suggested the arrangement was stable despite the broader political climate.
“Approximately the same level of oil will be imported by India,” he said, describing discounts as “a commercial secret” but typically “plus-minus 5%”.
He was joined by Roman Babushkin, Russia’s deputy chief of mission in New Delhi, who said Moscow trusted its longstanding partnership with India.
“It is a challenging situation for New Delhi, but we have trust in our ties. We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure,” Roman Babushkin said.
Washington Raises Tariffs On India
The United States has accused India of helping to finance Russia’s war in Ukraine by continuing to buy its crude, which has been widely shunned by Western markets.
US President Donald Trump last month imposed a 50% tariff on Indian exports to the US, citing its purchases of Russian energy. Washington argues the move is intended to deter Moscow from prolonging the war.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that the sanctions were part of a wider strategy to pressure Russia into negotiations, adding, “The president has put tremendous public pressure to bring this war to a close. He has taken actions- sanctions on India and other measures- to make clear that he wants this war to end.”
Indian Response To Trump Tariffs
New Delhi has condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable”. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen.
Underscoring his government’s resolve to shield rural communities despite mounting international pressure, PM Modi earlier reiterated, “India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen brothers and sisters. I know personally that I will have to pay a heavy price for this, but I am prepared for it. India stands firmly with its farmers, and I am ready to face whatever it takes for their welfare.”
