‘More Pressure, More Cooperation’: Russia Asserts Strong Oil Ties With India Amid Trump Tariffs

Russia has declared that its robust oil trade with India will not only withstand external pressure but will actually deepen in response, a direct message coming on the heels of new US tariffs targeting India for its energy partnership with Moscow. Russian officials on Wednesday emphasized that a “very special mechanism” is in place to ensure the uninterrupted flow of crude oil, asserting that Washington’s actions will only push the two nations closer together.

“More pressure means more cooperation,” stated Evgeny Griva, Russia’s Deputy Trade Representative in India, firmly underlining Moscow’s stance. The comments follow US President Donald Trump’s recent decision to impose fresh tariffs, alleging that India’s purchase of Russian oil is helping to fund the war in Ukraine.

Griva described Russia’s share of India’s crude imports, which stands at around 40%, as “very crucial for the Indian economy” and assured that no disruptions are expected. He painted an “absolutely positive” outlook for the broader trade relationship, noting that India has steadily increased its exports of machine tools, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals to Russia.

Russian officials also took a strong stand against the threat of secondary sanctions from the West, with Griva labeling them “illegal” and a reflection of “double standards and disrespect of national interests.” He stressed that within the BRICS framework, Russia would “never impose sanctions” and insisted that its oil is not only price-competitive but also highly profitable for India. “In such a situation, the Indian government understands well,” he added.

Echoing this sentiment, Roman Babushkin, Deputy Chief of the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, noted reports that President Trump may have already suspended the additional tariff. He offered reassurance to Indian exporters facing hurdles elsewhere, stating, “Don’t worry about that.

This pressure is unjustified,” and confirmed that Russian markets remain open. Babushkin highlighted that Russia has made its system “independent” of European sanctions and expressed unwavering confidence in its partnership with New Delhi. “We don’t expect India to stop buying Russian oil,” he said. “Our trade has increased seven times despite challenges.”