August 6, 2025 / New Delhi — In a sharp rebuttal to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat, the Indian government has defended its oil trade with Russia, calling Trump’s remarks “unreasonable” and “hypocritical.” India emphasized that it will take all necessary steps to protect its national interests and economic security.
On Monday, Trump posted on social media criticizing India for continuing oil imports from Russia amidst the Ukraine conflict. He claimed, “India continues to ignore the devastation caused by Russia’s war machine in Ukraine. I’m preparing to impose additional tariffs on them.”
In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a late-night statement rejecting Trump’s threats. “The U.S. is still importing uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear sector, palladium for its electric vehicle industry, fertilizers, and chemicals from Russia,” the ministry noted.
India also highlighted that European nations, too, continue to trade with Russia. In fact, despite sanctions, the U.S. engaged in $3.5 billion worth of trade with Russia last year. Targeting India alone, the ministry said, reflects a clear double standard.
Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many European countries reduced their oil imports from Russia. This created a supply gap that India stepped in to fill. India argues that its decision was guided by economic pragmatism and the need to ensure affordable and stable energy for its citizens.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar added, “We live in complex and uncertain times. Our collective aspiration is to build a just and representative global order — not one dominated by any single power.”
India concluded by reiterating that, like any major economy, it reserves the right to make decisions in line with its national interest and will not be coerced by external pressure.
