In a bold rebuttal to the West’s scrutiny, Indian High Commissioner to the UK Vikram Doraiswami firmly defended India’s Russian oil imports, stating that a nation “cannot simply switch off its economy.” Speaking to Times Radio last week, Doraiswami questioned the double standards exhibited by European partners who continue trading with Russia while criticizing India for doing the same.
“Don’t you think that that seems a little odd?” he remarked pointedly.
India, currently the world’s third-largest oil importer, historically relied on Middle Eastern nations for its energy needs. However, the dynamics shifted post-February 2022, when Russia, facing harsh Western sanctions over its invasion of Ukraine, began offering discounted crude oil. This attracted several Asian buyers, including India, who took advantage of the competitive pricing.
Doraiswami emphasized that many European nations still import rare earth elements and energy from Russia, despite voicing concerns about India’s engagement with Moscow.
Strategic and Security Ties
When asked about India’s ongoing relationship with Russia and President Vladimir Putin, Doraiswami highlighted India’s long-standing defense and security cooperation with Moscow.
“Some of our Western partners were unwilling to sell us weapons in the past, yet sold them to neighboring countries that used them against us,” he explained, underlining the depth of India-Russia ties built over decades.
Energy Realities and Market Shifts
Doraiswami also pointed out the significant disruption in global energy markets. With Western nations redirecting their energy purchases, traditional suppliers began prioritizing these new buyers, pushing India to seek alternative sources.
“We are the third-largest consumer of energy in the world. We import over 80% of our fuel. What would you have us do? Shut down our economy?” he asked rhetorically.
The Indian envoy reinforced the idea that India’s Russian oil imports are not a matter of allegiance but a practical necessity rooted in economic stability and energy security.
A Call for Balanced Perspectives
Further highlighting global inconsistencies, Doraiswami observed that many countries maintain strategic ties with nations posing challenges to India.
“Do we ask you to take a test of loyalty? No, we respect your decisions,” he said, suggesting India deserves the same level of autonomy.
India’s Neutral Stand on Russia-Ukraine War
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Doraiswami reiterated India’s position, stressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s consistent appeal for peace.
“This is not an era of war,” Modi has declared, a statement he’s conveyed directly to both President Putin and President Zelensky, Doraiswami noted.
India continues to call for an end to hostilities—not just in Ukraine but globally—maintaining its position as a responsible and peace-focused global player.
Conclusion:
India’s foreign policy, especially concerning energy and defense, is built on pragmatism and national interest. Vikram Doraiswami’s remarks shed light on the geopolitical double standards and reinforce that India’s Russian oil imports are guided by necessity, not ideology. As global power structures evolve, India stands firm in balancing diplomacy, strategic partnerships, and economic priorities.
