U.S. President Donald Trump recently accused India of fuelling the "Russian war machine" and warned of increasing tariffs due to New Delhi's continued oil purchases from Moscow. However, this claim forms part of a broader narrative that has emerged in the Western media, raising the question: Is India secretly supporting Russia's war efforts in Ukraine?

A closer examination of the facts reveals a different reality, one that challenges this narrative and exposes potential double standards in global politics.

Is Russian oil sanctioned?

Contrary to common perception, Russian oilis not entirely sanctioned. Unlike the oil industries of Iran or Venezuela, Russian crude remains accessible on global markets under a "price cap" system introduced by the G7 and the European Union. This mechanism aims to maintain stable global oil supplies while limiting Russia's revenues.

India adheres to this cap, buying oil below the price threshold and conducting all transactions transparently and legally.

Why the outrage?

Criticism of India appears to stem less from its actions and more from its rising clout in global energy markets. While several countries continue dealings with Moscow, India's oil trade has become a focal point. Observers note that the controversy is more about political optics than moral objections.

Who buys Russian oil?

Between December 2022 and July 2025, China accounted for 47% of Russian crude oil exports, followed by India with 38%, while EU nations and Turkey each made up 6%. India is not alone. Western allies and economic competitors alike continue to import large volumes of Russian oil.

What about natural gas?

India is not a leading buyer of Russian natural gas. The European Union, despite its criticism, remains the largest importer. In June 2025, EU nations spent over $1.2 billion on Russian gas, with countries like France, Hungary, and the Netherlands among the top purchasers.

India does not import refined petroleum products from Russia. By contrast, Turkey, a NATO member, accounts for 26% of such exports. China and Brazil also feature prominently on the list of buyers.

Is India breaking any rules?

No. India procures oil via international traders, not directly from Russian state-owned entities. All transactions comply with G7 guidelines, including the price cap, shipping regulations, and insurance policies.

Experts warn that India's sudden exit from Russian oil markets could cause global crude prices to surge past $200 per barrel, a scenario that would disrupt economies worldwide. Far from destabilising markets, India's involvement has helped maintain price stability.

While securing affordable energy is essential for India, its actions have had broader positive effects on global markets. Even top U.S. officials have acknowledged this. In November 2022, the U.S. Treasury Secretary stated, "We are happy for India to keep buying oil." In 2024, President Biden’s Energy Adviser noted, "India helped stabilise global markets." Later, in May 2024, U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti remarked, "India delivered. Prices didn’t spike." These statements reflect a recognition of India’s stabilising role in the global energy landscape.

What about the west's role?

The EU continues importing Russian crude via pipelines to Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. Japan has a sanctions exemption until 2026. The EU’s 18th sanctions package includes exceptions for countries like the UK, Canada, Norway, Switzerland, and even the U.S.

In this context, the focus on India appears selective. Despite playing by the rules, India is targeted for doing what many others continue to do discreetly.

India's energy strategy is based on legal, transparent, and stabilising principles. As the world's most populous nation, India has managed to secure energy without violating international norms. While criticism continues, the facts point to a different conclusion: India is not fuelling conflict, but helping to steady an already volatile global energy landscape.