Narendra Modi on Russian Oil

Narendra Modi's administration has maintained a pragmatic stance regarding the procurement of Russian oil, driven primarily by the need to secure affordable energy for India's growing economy and manage domestic inflation. This position involves balancing energy needs with pressure from Western partners, exemplified by his government welcoming a temporary 30-day US waiver that permitted Indian refiners to buy Russian crude oil already loaded on vessels as of early March 2026. His supporters characterize this as a success of strategic oil diplomacy, effectively securing vital supplies while navigating international sanctions regimes imposed on Russia.

This approach represents an evolution in India's foreign policy, where national economic interest often supersedes alignment with Western sanctions against Moscow over its actions in Ukraine. The government has previously stated it would cease purchases as part of trade deals with the United States, yet continued to benefit from the discounted pricing offered by Russia. The administration's actions demonstrate a consistent policy of non-alignment in energy procurement, asserting India's sovereign right to make decisions in its national interest, even when facing criticism from opposition parties suggesting foreign influence over energy policy.