Russia has commended India for its steadfast stance in the face of pressure from the United States regarding its purchase of Russian fuel oil. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that India has demonstrated its commitment to free trade policies despite tensions with the U.S.
In an interview with the Indonesian media outlet Kompas on Tuesday, Lavrov said, “The United States, under President Donald Trump, has adopted a strategy of pressuring countries that maintain business relations with Russia. India is a prime example. Our long-standing commercial ally and key strategic partner, India, has faced extremely high export tariffs imposed by the U.S.”
“However, India has not succumbed to this pressure and has remained steadfast in its commitment to free trade policies. This is truly commendable. There was a time when Russia was the biggest supporter of free trade, but now it is the U.S. that is betraying these principles,” he added.
Tensions between India and the United States over trade began escalating in August 2025, primarily due to high export tariffs imposed by President Trump. After winning the U.S. presidential election in November 2024 and taking office on January 20, 2025, Trump initially set a 15% tariff on Indian goods entering the U.S. market. In April 2025, this tariff was raised to 25%.
Subsequently, in early August 2025, Trump imposed an additional 25% tariff on India for continuing to purchase fuel oil from Russia, bringing the total tariff to 50%. This increased tariff, effective from August 27, 2025, has already begun impacting India’s economy.
It was anticipated that India might negotiate with Washington to reduce the tariffs. However, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has affirmed that his government will continue purchasing fuel oil from Russia to protect the interests of India’s poor and working-class population
Note For Readers:
The CEO handles all legal and staff issues. Claiming human help before the first hearing isn't part of our rules.
Our system uses humans and AI, including freelance journalists, editors, and reporters.
The CEO can confirm if your issue involves a person or AI.
by 
