New Delhi: India has firmly rejected NATO’s recent warning about imposing secondary sanctions on countries continuing trade with Russia, including oil purchases. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called out the alliance’s “double standards” and asserted that India’s energy security and sovereign interests will not be dictated by global power politics.
The sharp rebuttal came after NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte stated that nations continuing trade ties with Russia would have to face consequences. India’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal dismissed the comment, emphasizing that New Delhi has always taken independent and balanced decisions in its international relations.
“India is guided by its national interest. We will continue to pursue what is best for our people,” said Jaiswal during a press briefing. He added that Europe itself imports energy from Russia in various forms, so singling out India is hypocritical.
Russia-India Trade: A Matter of Energy Security
India has continued to buy discounted oil from Russia since the start of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Officials stress that this is purely a matter of securing affordable energy supplies for the country’s vast population.
New Delhi has repeatedly clarified that its transactions with Moscow comply with international law and are not aimed at undermining any sanctions regime. India also refuses to recognize unilateral sanctions not mandated by the United Nations.
Global Reaction and Strategic Autonomy
Experts believe that NATO’s rhetoric could escalate tensions in global diplomacy. India, however, remains committed to strategic autonomy. It maintains strong ties with both Western nations and Russia, walking a diplomatic tightrope while prioritizing national interest.
“Instead of coercion, there should be dialogue and understanding,” Jaiswal stated, reinforcing India’s commitment to multilateralism and peace.
Conclusion
India’s sharp rebuttal is a clear signal that it will not bow to pressure when it comes to national energy needs and foreign policy decisions. As the world navigates complex geopolitical shifts, India’s balanced stance continues to reflect its aspiration to act as a responsible global player.