New Delhi, June 12 (UDN): External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has defended India’s decision to continue importing Russian crude oil, asserting that the country’s energy choices are driven by national interest and the need to ensure affordable fuel supplies for its citizens.
Speaking at an international forum in Finland, Jaishankar said India increased its purchases of Russian oil following the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict at a time when global energy markets were facing severe uncertainty and soaring prices. He noted that stable and affordable energy supplies were crucial for sustaining economic growth and protecting consumers from market shocks.
The minister highlighted that during the peak of the energy crisis, several countries acknowledged India’s role in helping stabilize global oil markets by maintaining energy flows and preventing further disruptions. He remarked that nations which had earlier encouraged measures to ease pressure on global energy supplies later adopted policies that appeared contradictory.
Without directly targeting any country, Jaishankar underscored the importance of consistency in international economic and energy policies. He said every nation acts in accordance with its own interests, and India is no exception when it comes to safeguarding its energy security and economic well-being.
Reiterating India’s independent foreign policy stance, the minister said New Delhi will continue to make sovereign decisions based on its developmental priorities and the welfare of its people. He stressed that India’s approach to energy procurement remains pragmatic, transparent and focused on ensuring long-term stability.
The remarks come amid continuing global discussions on energy security, trade relations and geopolitical realignments, with India maintaining that its oil import decisions are guided by market realities and national requirements rather than external pressures.
India remains among the world’s largest energy consumers, and Russian crude has become an important component of the country’s import basket since 2022, helping contain domestic fuel costs and support economic growth.
