Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov reiterated on Thursday, October 16, 2025, that Russian crude oil remains the most economical option globally, and Russia’s energy ties with India are strategically aligned with New Delhi’s national interests.
Ambassador Alipov’s comments were made just hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had assured him India would discontinue its procurement of Russian crude oil.
“Russian energy maintains its position as the most cost-effective choice in the global market. Furthermore, Russia has consistently fulfilled its commitments and demonstrated adaptability in establishing alternative logistics and payment systems, particularly when faced with attempts to disrupt this vital cooperation,” Alipov stated.
During his address at an event, Alipov highlighted that Russian crude oil constitutes approximately one-third of India’s total hydrocarbon imports. He also lauded Russia as India’s “most reliable energy partner,” noting ample opportunities for expanding their comprehensive relationship, including in defense, trade, connectivity, and technology sectors.
Alipov characterized the India-Russia strategic partnership as a “stabilizing force” in international affairs and a significant catalyst for economic growth. “Such a relationship is increasingly crucial worldwide as we collectively navigate an era of unprecedented geopolitical uncertainty,” he added.
Later, when directly asked about Trump’s remarks and India’s future stance on Russian crude oil procurement, Alipov responded that it is a matter for the Indian government to address, guided primarily by the country’s national interests. He reaffirmed, “Our cooperation in the energy sector is very much in harmony with those interests.”
In response to the U.S. President’s comments, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that India is actively “broad-basing and diversifying” its energy sources to adapt to market conditions.
Jaiswal emphasized that New Delhi’s import policies are exclusively driven by national interest, with a consistent priority to safeguard the interests of Indian consumers amidst a volatile energy landscape. He further noted that India is also seeking to strengthen energy ties with the U.S.
“Ensuring stable energy prices and secure supplies are the dual objectives of our energy policy,” Jaiswal concluded, adding that this involves expanding and diversifying energy sourcing as deemed appropriate to meet market demands.
India’s continued procurement of petroleum products from Russia, despite Western sanctions, has been a significant point of contention, contributing to a noticeable strain in relations between New Delhi and Washington.
From Washington, Mr. Trump had informed reporters that “he [Prime Minister Narendra Modi] has assured me there will be no oil purchases from Russia.” The former U.S. President suggested that while India might not be able to halt purchases immediately, the process of reduction has already begun. “It [the process] has commenced. He cannot implement it instantaneously; it’s a gradual process, but it is expected to conclude soon,” Trump asserted.