MEA cautions NATO on Russia trade hypocrisy

New Delhi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday strongly responded to NATO chief Mark Rutte’s remarks suggesting secondary sanctions on countries trading with Russia. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that securing India's energy needs remains a top priority and decisions are based on market availability and global conditions. He also warned against double standards on the issue.

Rutte had urged India, China, and Brazil to reconsider buying Russian oil, warning of possible full-scale secondary sanctions. He said these countries should pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage seriously in peace talks with Ukraine, or else face major consequences. U.S. Senators have also called for quick approval of the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, which proposes heavy tariffs on nations that support Russia’s economy, including those purchasing its oil.

Union Minister Hardeep Puri highlighted that India has expanded its oil import base from 27 to 40 countries. He added that if Russian supplies are affected, India has alternative sources to rely on.

Meanwhile, on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Jaiswal confirmed that talks are progressing positively. The 12th round was held in Brussels in early July, and the next round will take place in September in New Delhi. Both sides are committed to finalising the agreement within 2025, in line with the roadmap laid out during PM Modi’s recent visit to Croatia and the EU Commissioners’ visit to India earlier this year.

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The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that India and Russia will soon hold a summit in New Delhi, with dates to be finalised based on mutual convenience. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the importance of the India-Russia strategic partnership, especially in defence, energy, and trade. He also said India is closely working with Russia to locate 16 missing Indian nationals reportedly recruited into the Russian Army. So far, 12 Indians have died in the Ukraine conflict, and efforts are on to ensure the early return of others still in Russian forces.