Despite US Tariff Warnings, India Will Continue to Import Oil from Russia. Prioritizing energy security, affordable prices, and strategic partnerships, India has made it clear that this is in its national interest.
Trump Tariff: India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and needs cheap and stable energy sources to meet the rapidly growing demand of its economy. This energy need has compelled India to look towards diverse supply sources, with Russia emerging as a major option. Despite the sanctions imposed on Russia by Western countries after the Ukraine war, India has continued to purchase oil from Russia.
US Tariff Threats and India's Response
Recently, the United States has warned countries importing oil from Russia about imposing tariffs. The aim of this warning is to discourage countries that may be weakening the sanctions imposed on Russia. India has also been placed in this category. But India has made it clear that it will make decisions based on its national interests, and not under any external pressure. There has been no official statement from India, but according to sources in the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Energy, there has been no change in India's policy.
Why Buying Oil from Russia is Beneficial for India
Russia is providing crude oil to India at competitive prices, which is significantly cheaper than the global market. This has not only helped India reduce its spending on oil but has also made it easier to control the Current Account Deficit. At the same time, India has also made payments for oil from Russia in Indian rupees on several occasions, which has reduced dependence on the dollar. This has been economically beneficial for India.
Historical and Strategic Partnership
The relationship between India and Russia is not limited to oil. Both countries have had deep ties in many areas for decades, including defense, technology, and space. Russia has been India's largest defense supplier, and many strategic projects are operated in cooperation between the two countries. In such a situation, oil trade with Russia can be seen not only from an economic point of view but also as part of a long-term strategic partnership.
Global Debate on the Legitimacy of Sanctions
The sanctions imposed by the US and the European Union are unilateral and have been implemented without the approval of the United Nations. In such a situation, many countries are not obliged to comply with these sanctions. India is also among these countries, which is independently deciding its energy policy. India's position indicates the growing trend on international forums in which countries are prioritizing multilateralism and strategic autonomy.
India's Role in a Multipolar Global Order
As global politics becomes increasingly multipolar, India's stance reflects that it wants to keep its policy balanced and practical rather than being influenced by any one pole. India does not want a confrontation with the US, nor does it want to increase dependence on Russia, but it also cannot ignore its economic interests and energy needs.
