Indian Russian Oil Purchases “A Point of Irritation” in U.S. Ties, Says Secretary Rubio
WASHINGTON, D.C., United States – August 1, 2025: Secretary of State Marco Rubio said India’s ongoing oil purchases from Russia are definitely annoying the U.S. He admitted that India has huge energy demands, but the U.S. administration is annoyed that New Delhi’s purchases are helping Russia keep its war in Ukraine going. This comes right after President Donald Trump announced a 25% tax on Indian exports because of India’s trade with Russia.
Rubio Supports U.S. Annoyance
Rubio mentioned on Fox Radio that India is a strategic partner and ally, but they don’t always see eye-to-eye on foreign policy. He mentioned that the White House is clearly annoyed that India keeps buying cheap Russian oil even though they could get it elsewhere. Sadly, that is keeping Russia’s war going, he said, adding that it’s a big problem, but not the only one.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said the same thing, saying India’s energy deals with Russia are making trade talks difficult. This coordinated message from top U.S. officials shows that the administration is not happy with India’s balancing act.
India Sticks to Its Guns
Indian officials have responded carefully but firmly to the U.S. pressure. One government source said that India believes meeting the energy needs of our people is the most important thing. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said that some European countries are still buying Russian energy.
The government says it will continue to make energy decisions based on market and national interest. This has been India’s position since the Ukraine conflict started.
Taxes and What They Mean
The new 25% tax on Indian exports and the threat of another penalty connect trade policy to whom countries side with. The taxes, which started on August 1, have already hit Indian state refiners. They have stopped buying Russian crude from the spot market to be safe.
These rising tensions highlight the tricky situation between the U.S. and India. While both countries are strengthening their partnership to push back against China, Russia’s role in global energy and military supplies is still a big issue.
