Russia Affirms India's Sovereign Right to Purchase Oil From Beneficial Sources Despite US Sanctions

India has emerged as one of the primary purchasers of Russian oil following the commencement of the Ukrainian conflict in 2022.

Moscow:

The Kremlin affirmed on Monday that India, as a sovereign nation, maintains the freedom to acquire oil from sources it deems advantageous, expressing confidence that New Delhi will continue prioritizing its economic interests in its policy decisions.

On August 6, the United States imposed additional tariffs of 25 percent on India due to its acquisition of oil and petroleum products from Russia. By the end of August, these U.S. tariffs on Indian imports had escalated to 50 percent.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated to reporters following Friday's summit between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi: "India, maintaining its sovereignty, conducts its foreign trade operations and purchases energy resources from wherever it finds beneficial."

After discussions with Prime Minister Modi, the Russian leader provided assurance that Moscow would continue to serve as India's dependable energy supplier.

When questioned whether New Delhi would persist in purchasing fuel from Moscow, Peskov responded, "Based on our understanding, our Indian partners will maintain their approach of safeguarding their economic interests."

India has developed into one of the major buyers of Russian oil since the Ukrainian conflict began in 2022.

Reports indicate that India is reducing its proportion of Russian crude in its oil imports under Western pressure.

Kremlin economic advisor Maxim Oreshkin, speaking to national broadcaster Channel 1, remarked, "Moscow possesses extensive experience in circumventing sanctions, and if India is willing, we will identify methods to supply crude."