The United States has strongly criticized India over its continued oil imports from Russia, calling it an “irresponsible global power.”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant said India’s approach goes against the expectations of the international community and could threaten future US-India trade relations.
In an exclusive interview, Bessant stated that India is buying crude oil from Russia, refining it, and then selling it in the global market. He called this strategy “imbalanced” in the current geopolitical and economic situation, warning that it is harming India’s global image.
He added, “India has failed to act as a responsible global power. President Trump and his team are deeply disappointed by India’s decisions. Future trade agreements will now depend on India’s behavior.”
It’s worth noting that on July 14, US President Donald Trump threatened 100% tariffs on countries purchasing oil from Russia. Following this, some Indian state-run oil refining companies temporarily paused Russian oil imports.
According to global energy reports, India is not only the third-largest oil importer in the world but also the biggest buyer of Russian seaborne crude, raising concerns among the US and its allies.
