Is it fair for the US to criticise India’s Russian oil purchases? The United States has strongly criticised India for continuing to buy Russian oil. But is this criticism fair? When we look closely, it seems like there is a double standard in how the US and some Western countries treat India compared to others.

US President Donald Trump announced a steep 50 per cent tariff on Indian goods. This decision was meant to punish India for importing Russian oil, which the US says undermines efforts to pressure Russia economically. The tariff is one of the highest imposed by the US on any country, tying India with Brazil at 50 per cent. Other countries, such as China, Canada, and Switzerland, face lower tariffs.

India strongly disagreed with this move. The Indian government called the tariffs “unfair, unjustified and unreasonable.” It said India’s oil imports are based on market needs and focused on securing energy for its huge population of 1.4 billion people. India also pointed out that many other countries are buying Russian energy too, yet only India is being targeted with such harsh penalties.

Why India continues to import Russian oil

India faces a big challenge in meeting its energy needs. Oil and gas are vital for running industries, transportation, and daily life. Russia offers oil at a cheaper and more reliable rate compared to other sources. Because of the war and sanctions, global oil supply chains have been disrupted, making it harder for India to find affordable alternatives.

India’s imports from Russia help keep energy prices manageable for its people. The country cannot suddenly stop buying Russian oil without facing major economic problems. This decision is about energy security, ensuring the country has enough fuel to power its growth and development.

The double standards of the West

The US and many European countries have criticised India for its Russian oil imports, but they have not taken the same harsh actions against themselves or their allies. For example:

  • Europe continues to import Russian gas and LNG (liquefied natural gas) in large quantities. According to reports, the European Union paid Russia over $100 billion for gas alone in 2024. Countries like Belgium even increased their LNG imports from Russia recently.
  • The US imports Russian uranium, chemicals, and fertilisers despite its tough stance on Russia. US-Russia trade, though reduced, still amounts to billions of dollars annually.
  • China, the largest buyer of Russian energy, has avoided US tariffs. China’s imports of Russian oil and gas have actually increased in recent years, and it remains the biggest consumer of Russian energy.

Meanwhile, India alone is being punished with extreme tariffs for doing what many other countries also do.

India’s firm response

India has been clear in its reply. It says its energy imports are chosen based on national interests and market factors, not politics. India’s statement said, “The United States has targeted India unfairly for actions taken by many other countries in their national interest.” The Indian government added it will take all necessary steps to protect its interests.

India’s stance shows courage and independence. It refuses to bow down to pressure that affects its energy security and economy. This response also highlights the need for fairness in global trade and diplomacy.

What Russia and others say

Russia supports India’s position. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, “Sovereign countries have the right to choose their own trade partners.” This statement defends the right of every country to decide its own economic and trade policies.

Other nations watch this situation closely. Many see the US tariffs as a sign of unfair treatment and hypocrisy. It damages trust and cooperation among countries trying to manage the complex challenges caused by the conflict in Ukraine.

The world is connected by trade, energy supplies, and politics. When one powerful country applies different rules to others, it creates tension and confusion. India’s example shows how countries must balance their own needs with global pressures.

India’s decision to keep buying Russian oil is about protecting its people from high energy costs and shortages. It is also about standing firm against what it sees as unfair treatment. The US tariffs may harm relations between two large democracies and affect future cooperation.

The US criticism of India over Russian oil imports is a case of double standards. India is not acting alone or against international norms. Many other countries, including US allies and China, continue Russian energy trade with fewer consequences.

India’s response is based on its national interest, energy security, and economic stability. The US must recognise this and stop unfairly targeting India while it pursues its own energy needs quietly. Fairness and consistency in global policies are essential for trust and cooperation.

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