Amidst criticism from Western nations regarding oil purchases from Russia, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has once again firmly articulated the country's stance. Speaking at an international event in Finland, Jaishankar stated unequivocally that India makes decisions based on its national interests and energy needs, rather than under external pressure. He added that before lecturing India on buying oil from Russia, European nations should reflect on their own history of arms exports.

During the event, when a journalist accused India of adopting a soft stance towards Russia and purchasing Russian oil on a large scale, Jaishankar explained India's position in detail. He noted that the Russia-Ukraine war brought about massive shifts in the global energy market. At that time, European nations began sourcing large quantities of oil from the Middle East—traditionally India's primary supplier. Consequently, India faced the challenge of ensuring energy security, and Russian oil was relatively affordable and readily available.

Jaishankar’s sharp retort

Jaishankar emphasized that energy security is a top priority for any nation. For a vast country like India, an affordable and stable energy supply is crucial. He stated bluntly that India’s oil procurement decisions are based on cost and availability, not political pressure. The External Affairs Minister also recalled that in the early stages of the war, the US itself had advised several countries, including India, to continue purchasing Russian oil to maintain market supply and prevent uncontrolled price spikes. At the time, this move was deemed essential for stabilizing the global economy.

Criticism of Europe

In his address, Jaishankar raised a significant point while criticizing Europe. He noted that for decades, weapons manufactured in Europe have found their way to countries that subsequently used them against India. In contrast, India has never supplied weapons to any country that were then used against European nations. He stated that India has never jeopardized Europe's security; therefore, Europe should reflect on its own track record before attempting to lecture others on morality.

Jaishankar's remarks come at a time when international divisions regarding the Russia-Ukraine war persist. India has consistently maintained that it is not taking sides but is instead making decisions based on its national interests and global stability. This statement by Jaishankar clearly signals India's independent foreign policy. While India is strengthening strategic ties with Western nations, it is simultaneously upholding its traditional relationship with Russia. This balance is considered a defining characteristic of India's diplomatic approach.