External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated during his Russia visit that India is not the largest buyer of oil from Russia. He expressed displeasure over the US's 50% tariff and questioned the double standards policy.
Trump Tariff: External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is currently on a visit to Russia. This visit holds particular significance, especially after the 50 percent tariff imposed by the United States on India. During this visit, he held crucial discussions on bilateral relations between Russia and India, as well as energy security, trade, and global politics.
Recently, the United States imposed a 25 percent reciprocal duty and an additional 25 percent duty on the purchase of Russian oil on India, bringing the total tariff to 50 percent. The US alleged that India is buying crude oil from Russia, indirectly helping Russia in the Ukraine war. India has expressed b displeasure over this.
US Allegations Against India and Jaishankar's Response
In a conversation with Russian media, Jaishankar said that it is surprising to threaten India for buying oil from Russia. He clarified that India is not among the largest oil buyers from Russia.
Jaishankar stated that China is the largest buyer of oil from Russia. Furthermore, the European Union is the largest buyer of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). He also said that India is not the country that has seen the largest surge in trade with Russia since 2022.
Jaishankar said that India has been trying to stabilize the global energy market at the suggestion of the United States for the past few years. This includes buying oil from Russia. Incidentally, India also buys oil from the US, and its volume has increased. In this context, Jaishankar said that the US's argument seems surprising and inconsistent.
Criticism of Trump and International Double Standards
The External Affairs Minister also commented on Trump's double standards policy. He said that Trump took action against India for buying oil from Russia, while he himself recently stated during a meeting with Russian President Putin that trade between the US and Russia is increasing.
According to Jaishankar, this reflects double standards. On one hand, India is being pressured to stop buying oil from Russia, while on the other hand, the US continues to promote trade between America and Russia.
Emphasis on India's Energy Security
Jaishankar also clarified that India is working on diverse options for energy security. Buying oil from Russia is part of India's strategic priorities. He said that India's priority is to ensure affordable energy for its citizens and to maintain balance in the global market.
Jaishankar emphasized that India has always adhered to international law and rules. India's policies are not intended to benefit any party in any conflict. During this visit, Jaishankar discussed various aspects of strengthening bilateral relations with Russia. This includes defense cooperation, energy trade, and technological partnership.
