The political scientist called India's purchases of Russian oil a strategic step.

India's decision to continue purchasing Russian oil in the face of pressure from the United States demonstrates the country's independence and high political weight in world politics. This was stated to Izvestia on February 20 by political scientist and publicist Georgy Dibrov.

"By its decision, the Indian leadership has demonstrated great political weight in international politics. India is a significant geopolitical center that focuses on its own national interests. The Indian leadership is demonstrating that they are ready to move towards a multipolar world based on openness and constructiveness. New Delhi is an example for many countries that are in search of their own foreign policy guidelines. To grow above yourself, you need to look into yourself," the expert said.

Dibrov recalled that in recent years, India has actively developed a dialogue with the United States. In particular, in February 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a meeting with American President Donald Trump, confirmed his readiness to expand cooperation.

The expert noted that when the interests of major powers are intertwined, such contradictions are inevitable and reflect the complex structure of international relations. According to him, Washington and New Delhi are aware of the high level of economic interdependence, so they are not interested in bringing the situation to extreme forms of aggravation.

Closer to the body: India wanted its own oil

The South Asian state does not intend to limit itself to the processing and sale of Russian black gold

Dibrov called the continuation of Russian oil supplies an economically rational step aimed at strengthening the potential of the Indian economy and stabilizing the regional situation. In his opinion, energy cooperation remains one of the key factors in the development of the countries of Greater Eurasia.

"In the context of hybrid wars and sectoral pressure, there is a need to find a solution to instability rather than escalating counterproductive measures. India is already an example for those who are in search of internal self-determination in the international arena. Therefore, there is no need for New Delhi to lead a formal movement of countries fighting the economic expansion of the United States or other Western countries. India is showing an example of how to defend one's own opinion, as well as look for ways to resolve complex multilateral international contradictions," the political scientist concluded.

On February 19, a source in one of the republic's oil refining companies told Izvestia that Indian companies had not made any decisions to completely stop purchasing Russian oil, as well as to reduce imports. At the same time, on February 7, Trump announced a reduction in duties to 18% for Delhi in exchange for refusing to purchase oil from the Russian Federation. In addition, according to the head of the White House, India has committed to purchase $500 billion worth of energy resources, aircraft and aviation components, precious metals, technological products and coking coal from the United States within five years.

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