India Closely Monitors Proposed US Sanctions on Russian Oil Buyers, Reaffirms Commitment to Affordable Energy and Sovereign Interests

Delhi: India on Friday made it clear that it is carefully tracking developments around a proposed United States law that could impose extremely high tariffs on countries importing Russian oil, while firmly reiterating that its energy decisions are guided by national interest and the need to protect consumers from rising costs.

Addressing questions during the Ministry of External Affairs’ weekly media briefing, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi is fully aware of the legislation being discussed in Washington, which reportedly aims to penalise nations continuing energy trade with Russia. The proposed move, said to be supported by US President Donald Trump, could introduce punitive tariffs on countries importing Russian oil and uranium.

India underlined that its energy policy is shaped by global market realities as well as domestic necessities. With a population of over 1.4 billion, the government stressed that ensuring steady and reasonably priced energy supplies remains a non-negotiable priority. Officials indicated that New Delhi continuously evaluates international conditions, price volatility, and supply chains before making procurement decisions, and will not compromise the country’s economic stability.

The comments come amid growing international attention on India’s energy ties with Russia following Western sanctions imposed after the Ukraine conflict. If enacted, the US legislation could affect major economies, including India, China, and Brazil, which continue to purchase Russian energy resources.

Beyond energy concerns, India also reiterated its firm position on territorial sovereignty in response to questions on China’s regional activities. The MEA stated that infrastructure development by China under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor in the Shaksgam Valley directly violates India’s sovereignty. New Delhi once again rejected the 1963 China-Pakistan boundary agreement, asserting that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh remain integral and inseparable parts of India.