NEW DELHI : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has voiced surprise over Washington’s decision to impose tariffs on India for its continued purchase of Russian oil, saying he was “perplexed at the logic” behind the move.
Speaking on Thursday, Jaishankar underlined that India is not the largest buyer of Russian crude, pointing out that both the European Union and China import far more. He also reminded Washington that India has steadily increased oil imports from the United States, making the tariff decision appear inconsistent.
The minister stressed that India’s energy policy is guided by national interest and market stability. He argued that maintaining multiple sources of crude is essential for energy security, adding that India’s engagement with Russia helps stabilize global supplies — a goal the U.S. itself has previously encouraged.
The comments come amid rising trade friction after U.S. President Donald Trump approved higher tariffs on countries continuing to import Russian oil. India, now one of the largest recipients of discounted Russian crude since 2023, faces mounting international scrutiny but insists its actions are both legal and transparent.