Finland Backs India On Russian Oil
Finland has said India’s Russian oil purchases were made within the Western price-cap framework, adding a new dimension to the debate over New Delhi’s energy trade with Moscow. The remarks came after External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended India’s crude imports during his visit to Finland.
India Russian Oil Imports
Jaishankar said India increased Russian oil purchases after the Ukraine conflict because crude was available and affordable. He also stated that the United States had specifically asked India in 2022 to keep buying Russian oil to help stabilise global energy markets.
India has consistently maintained that its oil imports are guided by national interest, energy security and affordability for consumers.
Russian Oil Price Cap
Finland’s foreign minister said India had bought Russian oil under the Western price-cap mechanism. The price cap was introduced by Western countries to limit Moscow’s oil revenue while keeping global crude supplies stable.
The remarks suggest that India’s purchases did not necessarily violate the framework created by the West. India has repeatedly said it follows applicable rules while securing energy supplies for its domestic market.
Jaishankar Defends India’s Energy Policy
Jaishankar also criticised Europe’s position, saying many European countries had sold weapons that were later used against India. He argued that India had not harmed Europe, while European arms exports had directly affected India’s security interests.
The exchange highlighted India’s broader position on strategic autonomy. New Delhi has continued engagement with Russia, the U.S. and Europe while insisting that its foreign policy decisions will be based on Indian interests.
