As geopolitical tensions reshape global energy flows, Russia has underlined the resilience of its oil trade with India, stressing that bilateral cooperation will only deepen under external pressure.
The
comments come just days after US President Donald Trump announced fresh tariffs on India, alleging that New Delhi was aiding the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil.
“More pressure means more cooperation,” said Evgeny Griva, Deputy Trade Representative of Russia in India, highlighting that Moscow has established a “very special mechanism” to ensure the smooth supply of crude oil to India despite sanctions.
Russia continues to be a key energy partner for India, accounting for around 40 per cent of its crude imports, a share described by Griva as “very crucial for the Indian economy.”
He added that the current arrangements allow Moscow to maintain a steady flow of oil, with no disruption expected in the future.
Officials said that, beyond energy, India has steadily expanded its exports to Russia, particularly in machine tools, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, strengthening the trade relationship.
Calling the outlook “absolutely positive,” Griva suggested that both nations are finding greater common ground as Western sanctions push them closer together.
‘Illegal’: Griva On Secondary Tariffs
Griva, however, pushed back strongly against some planned Western moves, terming secondary sanctions “illegal” and evidence of “double standards and disrespect of national interests.”
He emphasised that within BRICS, Russia would “never impose sanctions,” and insisted that Moscow’s oil is not only price-competitive but also profitable for India.
“In such a situation, the Indian government understands well,” he added.
Roman Babushkin, Deputy Chief of the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, echoed the sentiment, noting reports that Trump has suspended the additional tariff.
He assured that Russian markets remain open to Indian exporters facing hurdles abroad. “Don’t worry about that. This pressure is unjustified,” he said.
Babushkin also highlighted that European sanctions have had little impact on Russia’s oil trade, thanks to structural adjustments.
“We have made our system independent,” he said. He further underlined Moscow’s trust in its partnership with New Delhi: “We don’t expect India to stop buying Russian oil. Our trade has increased seven times despite challenges.”
