Russia Reaffirms Energy Ties with India Despite Western Pressure

By A Staff Reporter

Delhi: Russia has reiterated its confidence in India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, dismissing external pressure from Western nations urging New Delhi to reduce energy ties with Moscow. Roman Babushkin, Chargé d’Affaires of the Russian Embassy in India, underscored that the bilateral partnership remains resilient despite sanctions and geopolitical tensions.

Babushkin noted that India faces challenging circumstances but affirmed that Moscow does not expect New Delhi to alter its energy policy. He described the energy relationship as a cornerstone of a “true strategic partnership,” pointing out that both countries are committed to addressing challenges together.

The envoy further highlighted that the recent phone conversation between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected the depth of the relationship, with Russia keeping India closely informed on developments in Ukraine. According to him, such exchanges underline India’s importance in Russia’s strategic calculations.

On the issue of sanctions, Babushkin remarked that Moscow has long experience navigating restrictions and continues to expand trade despite them. He pointed out that bilateral trade with India has grown sevenfold in recent years, driven largely by energy cooperation.