India to Maintain Russian Energy Imports, With Plan to Bypass Tariff Pressures: Foreign Secretary
India will continue importing oil from Russia despite new U.S. tariff pressures, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said after Modi–Putin talks in New Delhi. Misri emphasised that India will safeguard supply stability and expand energy cooperation with Moscow to meet growing domestic demand amid global market volatility.
During a detailed media briefing following the Modi–Putin discussions, the Foreign Secretary underscored that India’s energy strategy remains anchored in maintaining diversified and affordable imports. He said the government is prepared to navigate the recently imposed “Trump tariffs” to ensure domestic demand is met smoothly, adding that mechanisms are being explored to keep supply chains insulated from geopolitical fluctuations.
Misri noted that energy cooperation continues to be a significant pillar of India–Russia relations, with both sides working to expand collaboration in areas ranging from long-term supply commitments to investment partnerships. He reiterated that New Delhi views Moscow as a critical partner in stabilising India’s energy landscape, particularly at a time when global volatility threatens to push prices higher.
The meeting between Modi and Putin, which covered a broad range of strategic issues, reaffirmed mutual interest in deepening bilateral engagement. However, the Foreign Secretary emphasised that the energy conversation was especially crucial, given India's rising consumption and the need to ensure market-linked access to crude without disruptions.
India’s insistence on maintaining Russian energy imports despite tariff-related challenges reflects its broader diplomatic stance of prioritising national economic interests while balancing major power relationships. As global markets brace for further uncertainty, New Delhi’s commitment to secure uninterrupted energy supplies underscores the centrality of energy independence to its strategic planning.

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