Russia affirms ‘India matters’ as US tariffs loom over Moscow’s oil trade

In the face of looming US tariffs targeting India’s imports of Russian crude, Moscow’s envoy to New Delhi, Roman Babushkin, reaffirmed Russia’s enduring view of India as a key partner.

Speaking at a press conference, Babushkin sharply criticized the US measures, labeling them “unjustified and unilateral.”

He warned that “if the West criticizes you, it means you are doing everything right,” positioning India as a principled, aligned ally.

Babushkin painted US economic actions as weaponized, stressing that “friends do not impose sanctions, Russia will never impose sanctions” and opining that such pressure may erode confidence in the dollar.

He also hinted at expanding markets for Indian goods in Russia, stating that while US trade routes may be constrained, “the Russian market is welcoming Indian exports.”

Amid these tensions, Babushkin noted that Russia possesses a “special mechanism” to continue supplying India's energy needs despite external pressure.

He commended recent high-level engagements between India and China, particularly highlighting Wang Yi’s visit to New Delhi and expressed hope for an upcoming trilateral summit involving Moscow, Delhi, and Beijing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with President Vladimir Putin twice this month — first on Aug 8 and again on August 18. In his latest post-call statement on X, Modi thanked Putin for providing insights into the US–Russia talks in Alaska and reaffirmed India’s consistent support for a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict.

Looking ahead, Babushkin confirmed that President Putin is expected to visit India later this year—another signal of the strategic depth underpinning India–Russia ties.