S Jaishankar defends Russian oil imports, criticises Western double standards

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has defended India's decision to purchase Russian oil following the Ukraine conflict, while accusing Western countries of adopting inconsistent positions on sanctions and energy trade when it suits their interests.

Speaking at an event in Finland's Kultaranta, Jaishankar said India increased its purchases of Russian crude in 2022 amid global market disruptions and shortages triggered by the Ukraine war.

Responding to questions about India's ties with Moscow, the minister said the decision was based on energy security, availability and affordability rather than political considerations.

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According to Jaishankar, global energy markets at the time were under severe strain, with European countries sourcing large quantities of oil from traditional suppliers in the Middle East, leaving countries such as India to seek alternative options.

'Circumstances pushed us in a certain direction'

Jaishankar argued that Russia emerged as a dependable supplier during a period of uncertainty and said India's priority was ensuring stable and affordable energy supplies for its citizens.

He also questioned what he described as the shifting approach of the United States towards Russian energy exports. Referring to sanctions and subsequent policy changes, the minister suggested that geopolitical decisions were often influenced by changing strategic and economic needs rather than fixed principles.

His remarks come against the backdrop of fluctuating US policies on Russian oil imports and sanctions, particularly as concerns over global energy supplies intensified amid tensions in West Asia.

India has consistently maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interest, commercial viability and the need to ensure energy security for a growing economy.

Jaishankar questions Europe's stance

During the discussion, Jaishankar also criticised what he termed Europe's selective approach to global security issues. The minister noted that India had never supplied weapons that endangered European nations, while pointing out that several European countries had, over the years, exported defence equipment to regions that have posed security challenges for India.

His comments reflected New Delhi's long-standing position that countries should evaluate international issues through a broader and more balanced lens rather than applying different standards to different regions.

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The remarks come at a time when India continues to balance its strategic partnerships with Western nations while maintaining longstanding ties with Russia, particularly in the areas of energy and defence cooperation.

FAQs

Q1. Why did India increase its purchases of Russian oil?

India has said its purchases were driven by energy security, affordability and the need to ensure stable supplies amid global market disruptions following the Ukraine conflict.

Q2. What did S Jaishankar say about Western countries?

Jaishankar criticised what he described as inconsistent Western policies on sanctions and energy trade, arguing that countries often change their positions based on strategic and economic interests.