India Hits Out at West Over 'Double Standards' on Buying Oil from Russia

India has strongly objected to what it calls “double standards” after the U.S. Congress advanced a bill proposing 500% duties on countries importing oil from Russia, including India, China, and Brazil. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a sharp response as signs emerged that former U.S. President Donald Trump supports the "Russian Sanctions Act"—a bill introduced by Republican Senator Lindsey Graham. The legislation proposes not only steep primary sanctions but also 100% secondary tariffs on nations continuing to trade in Russian oil and other sanctioned commodities.

Adding to the pressure, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who met with Trump and members of the U.S. Congress on July 16, 2025, directly warned top buyers of Russian energy. In his remarks, Rutte singled out China, India, and Brazil, urging them to influence Moscow to end the Ukraine war or risk facing punitive tariffs.

India, however, pushed back, criticizing the West for selectively applying sanctions. Officials pointed out that several European Union nations continue to purchase Russian energy through intermediaries or under long-term contracts, even as they call for sanctions against others doing the same.

The MEA’s statement underscores India’s position of pursuing strategic autonomy in energy security, especially at a time when global oil prices and geopolitical tensions are high.