External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended India’s choice to purchase Russian oil, citing cost and availability as key factors. Speaking at a panel discussion in Helsinki, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s decision was influenced by market conditions at the time, with Russian oil being predominant due to European nations sourcing oil from the Middle East.
Jaishankar addressed criticism of India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, stating that India’s oil purchases were based on practical considerations. He highlighted that European countries have exported weapons used against India, contrasting this with India’s record of not using its weapons against European nations.
India has consistently justified its procurement of Russian oil, emphasizing national interests and energy security. The country has called for diplomatic solutions to the Ukraine conflict, underscoring the importance of dialogue in resolving the crisis.
