Russia defends India oil trade, says supplies cushioned West Asia war impact

Russia defended its crude oil exports to India after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for an end to their energy trade, saying the supplies helped cushion the impact of the war in West Asia. Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko called Moscow a "reliable exporter" able to meet partners' needs under challenging conditions. Rudenko cited disruptions to global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for oil and gas, during the seven-month conflict. Zelenskyy argued Russia's economy depends on energy sales to India, China, and Turkey, and that halting such trade would force Moscow to stop fighting. The remarks follow US President Donald Trump signing a law allowing tariffs of up to 100% on countries buying Russian oil. India maintains its energy import decisions are based on market conditions and national security needs, with Russia's ambassador saying New Delhi's purchases support its own development.