India’s energy cooperation with Russia continues to align with its national interests, according to Russian Ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, following US former President Donald Trump’s claim that PM Narendra Modi assured him India would stop buying Russian oil.
Alipov said, “This is the question for the Indian government… our cooperation in energy is very much in tune with those interests.” Russia’s Deputy PM Alexander Novak also reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to ongoing partnerships, stating, “We continue to collaborate with our partners.”
Preparations for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India are underway, with an intensive agenda covering economy, defence, and energy agreements. Ambassador Alipov called the visit “very important” and expected it to be highly productive.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized that energy import decisions are driven by consumer interests, price stability, and supply security, reiterating that the country prioritizes national interest in its sourcing policies. Currently, Russia accounts for about one-third of India’s total crude imports.
While Washington urges India to reduce Russian oil purchases, Trump suggested that the shift would be gradual, stating, “He’s not buying his oil from Russia. He can’t do it immediately… the process is going to be over soon.”
Amid these international discussions, both India and Russia appear committed to strengthening energy ties, ensuring stable supplies, and safeguarding national energy security.
