Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov has said that India’s decision to purchase Russian crude is driven by its own energy needs and national interests rather than an attempt to support Moscow. Speaking to DD News, Alipov said India “does not buy Russian oil for the sake of helping Russia” but purchases it for its own development and the welfare of its people. His comments come amid intensifying Western pressure on countries continuing to import Russian energy. India has significantly increased its purchases of Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began, with discounted Russian oil becoming an important part of the country's energy supply.

However, the trade has increasingly come under scrutiny from Western nations seeking to limit Moscow’s oil revenues. The latest remarks come as the United States considers tougher measures against major buyers of Russian oil, including the possibility of tariffs of up to 100% under proposed legislation. Washington and its allies have argued that restricting Russia’s energy revenues could put additional economic pressure on Moscow. Alipov, however, criticised the use of sanctions and tariffs, arguing that India’s energy decisions should be guided by its own requirements. Russia has also indicated that it remains prepared to supply India with the oil it needs despite growing international pressure.

India has consistently defended its energy purchases by stressing the importance of securing affordable and reliable supplies for its large population. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has also argued that stopping India’s Russian oil purchases would not by itself bring the Russia Ukraine war to an end, saying the conflict ultimately requires dialogue and diplomacy. The issue has therefore become a key point of tension between India and Western countries, while also remaining an important part of the growing India Russia economic relationship. With sanctions pressure continuing and global energy markets facing uncertainty, India’s approach to Russian crude is likely to remain closely watched in the months ahead.