India Rejects NATO Chief’s Double Standards on Russian Oil Imports

New Delhi In a strong and clear message, India has pushed back against the recent remarks made by the NATO Secretary-General regarding its oil imports from Russia. Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, stated that India will continue to act in its national interest when it comes to energy security. This comes after NATO Chief criticized countries that are continuing trade ties with Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Speaking in a televised interview on Thursday, Minister Puri called out the “double standards” being practiced by Western nations, especially in Europe, over energy dealings with Russia. “India does not rely on a single country for its oil and gas needs,” he said, emphasizing that India imports energy from multiple sources to ensure stable supply for its massive population and growing economy.

Puri went on to highlight the disparity in global criticism, noting that while India is often under the spotlight for its Russian imports, European countries continue to purchase Russian energy at significantly higher volumes. “What India imports in an entire quarter, some of these countries buy in just half a day,” he added, questioning the fairness of the scrutiny directed at New Delhi.

He reiterated India’s commitment to global diplomacy and peace but emphasized that energy security cannot be compromised. “We will not be dictated to by external powers when it comes to securing affordable and reliable energy for our people,” Puri asserted.

India’s stand reflects a broader strategy of balancing its geopolitical relationships while ensuring that domestic priorities such as inflation control, energy access, and economic growth are not compromised. With the world witnessing sharp fluctuations in oil prices and supply chain disruptions due to conflicts, India has opted for a pragmatic approach.

Global oil markets have been under pressure since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Western nations, particularly in NATO and the EU, have imposed strict sanctions on Russia, including its energy exports. However, this has not prevented many European countries from continuing limited purchases through indirect channels or exceptions.

India, which imports over 80% of its crude oil needs, has defended its decision to diversify sources and buy discounted oil from Russia when it serves national interests. This policy, Indian officials argue, helps keep fuel prices manageable and inflation under control at home.

Puri concluded the interview by stating that energy is a strategic sector and every country has the sovereign right to chart its course. “We have to think about our people first — their needs, their affordability, and their future. That’s the only standard we follow,” he said firmly.