India Slams U.S. Tariffs on Russian Oil Imports as ‘Unfair and Unjustified’

New Delhi, August 6 : The Government of India has issued a sharp response to recent actions by the United States, which has imposed additional tariffs on India over its ongoing oil imports from Russia.

In an official statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India criticized the move as “extremely unfortunate,” stating that the country’s energy imports are driven by market factors and the overarching goal of ensuring the energy security of 1.4 billion people.

“We have already made clear our position on these issues,” the MEA said. “Our actions are rooted in national interest, just as several other countries continue to trade with Russia.”

India condemned the U.S. decision to single it out, pointing out the double standards in global diplomacy.

“It is deeply regrettable that the United States would penalize India for engaging in practices that other nations are also pursuing in their own national interest,” the statement read.

The Ministry reiterated its stance, calling the tariffs “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” India emphasized that it will take all necessary actions to safeguard its national interests and economic sovereignty.

This development marks an escalation in trade tensions between the two democracies, with India signaling that it will not compromise on energy access or independent foreign policy under external pressure.