India has once again defended its energy procurement strategy, with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar asserting that the country’s crude oil purchases are determined by economic realities rather than political considerations.
Speaking during a discussion on global power shifts and international competition at the Kultaranta Talks in Finland, Jaishankar addressed questions surrounding India’s continued purchase of Russian oil since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Explaining New Delhi’s position, he said, “I buy oil based on cost and availability. So at that point of time, much of the oil available on the market was Russia because Europeans were essentially buying up the Middle East oil, which was our traditional supply.”
The minister argued that market conditions played a decisive role in India’s energy decisions, especially when traditional sources became less accessible due to changing global demand patterns.
Jaishankar also challenged what he described as inconsistent criticism from parts of Europe regarding India’s relationship with Russia. Drawing attention to India’s security concerns, he contrasted New Delhi’s actions with the defence exports of several European countries.
“No European country has been attacked with Indian weapons. I wish I could say that for European weapons vis-a-vis India. Europeans sell weapons that are used to attack India. Not now, for many years. We Indians have never done anything to endanger Europe,” he said.
His remarks came in response to questions suggesting that India had shown excessive sympathy toward Moscow because of its oil purchases. Jaishankar maintained that India’s approach remains rooted in national interest and practical considerations.
Since the start of the conflict in Ukraine, India has faced repeated scrutiny from some Western governments over its energy trade with Russia. However, New Delhi has consistently maintained that ensuring affordable energy supplies for its population remains a priority.
At the same time, India has continued to advocate diplomatic engagement and dialogue as the preferred route to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, while preserving what it describes as an independent foreign policy guided by strategic and economic interests.
