Roman Babushkin, Russia’s Charge d’Affaires in New Delhi, on Wednesday slammed the United States for imposing tariffs on India over its purchase of Russian crude, calling the measures “unilateral, unjustified, and destabilising for global energy security.”
Speaking at a press briefing, Babushkin said Russia remains India’s most reliable energy partner and dismissed Western pressure to cut oil imports. “Russia is the largest producer of oil and India is the largest consumer. Any unilateral action disrupts supply chains, destabilises global markets and endangers energy security for developing nations. If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right,” he remarked.
He asserted that Moscow did not expect India to halt crude imports, underscoring the resilience of the strategic partnership. “This is a true strategic partnership. Even in challenging circumstances, we are committed to resolving issues for mutual satisfaction. President Putin’s recent phone call to Prime Minister Modi shows India’s importance to Russia,” Babushkin said, adding that bilateral trade had grown sevenfold in recent years despite sanctions.
Highlighting the alternative opportunities available, he noted, “If Indian goods face difficulties in the US market, the Russian market is welcoming Indian exports.”
His comments came as External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar co-chaired the Russia-India Intergovernmental Commission (IRIGC) in Moscow, a key platform covering trade, energy, finance and defence cooperation. Babushkin called the mechanism the “main pillar of practical cooperation” and noted preparations for possible high-level meetings between Indian and Russian leaders later this year.
He also mentioned President Vladimir Putin’s recent outreach to Prime Minister Modi, including congratulations on India’s Independence Day and condolences over the Kashmir floods, alongside updates on global diplomatic engagements.
Despite mounting Western sanctions, Babushkin stressed that India and Russia would continue to expand ties. “Our cooperation will only deepen. We are capable of finding solutions that help us grow together,” he concluded.
