‘Less than what Europe does in an afternoon’: Jaishankar sets record on Russian oil purchase

New Delhi: As the first meeting of 2+2 ministers between US and India happened in Washington last night, Foreign minister S Jaishankar set the records straight about India’s oil purchase from Russia.

Amid the mounting pressure over India maintaining ‘neutral’ stand on Russia and US’ apparent objection to oil purchases, the foreign minister did some plainspeak and told the press that India’s oil purchase from Russia was probably less than what Europe does in an afternoon.

“If you are looking at energy purchases from Russia, I would suggest that your attention should be focused on Europe. We do buy some energy, which is necessary for our energy security. But, figures suggest our total purchases for the month would be probably less than what Europe does in an afternoon,” Mr Jaishankar told a reporter.

This was the third round of 2+2 talks between India & US. Last meet was held in October 2020 in New Delhi. Foreign & Defence Ministers of both nations take part in the 2+2 ministerial meet.

US supports India’s stand on Russian oil deal

US also came out in defence of India over the issue of oil purchase and told the press meet that its total purchase as less than 1-2% as against 10% from United States.

“I’ll let Prime Minister Modi and the Indians speak to that. Again, it’s 1 to 2 per cent at this point in time. They import 10 per cent from the United States. It is not a violation of any sanctions or anything along those lines. It was a constructive, direct conversation. But I will let them speak for themselves,” she said.

As the meeting between foreign & defence ministers of both the countries happened in the shadow of Russia-Ukraine war, there was bound to differences over India’s trade links with ‘aggressor’ country. India has been buying subsidized oil from Russia despite global outrage against Russia and Western nations joining hands against it. US along with other Westerns powers have been advocating for breaking all trade ties with Russia for its military misadventures in Ukraine but never raised objection to India’s oil deal with Russia.