Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the United States of pressuring India and other partner countries to curb purchases of Russian oil, claiming Washington is using sanctions, tariffs and trade restrictions to advance its own energy exports.
Speaking to TV BRICS, Lavrov said the US was actively trying to block access to what he described as “cheap, affordable Russian energy resources”, while pushing countries to buy higher-priced American liquefied natural gas (LNG). His remarks were reported by Sputnik.
Lavrov alleged that instead of fostering cooperation, Washington has intensified sanctions and imposed restrictions on maritime trade, including what he termed a “war” against oil tankers in international waters, in violation of global maritime law. He said Europe had already been barred from Russian energy, and similar pressure was now being applied on India and others.
The comments come amid speculation over a possible recalibration of India’s Russian oil imports. New Delhi, however, has repeatedly stressed that its energy decisions are guided solely by national interest.
Hours after Lavrov’s remarks, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reiterated that India’s energy policy rests on affordability, availability and reliability of supply, noting the country’s status as a net importer of oil and gas. He said protecting consumers from inflationary pressures remains a priority.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal earlier clarified that Indian companies independently decide on oil imports and that procurement choices are not influenced by the India-US interim trade agreement framework.
The Ministry of External Affairs has maintained that diversification of energy sources, aligned with market realities and global shifts, is central to India’s long-term energy security.
