Lavrov: Russia-India Trade Hits Record Levels Despite US Tariff Threats
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov announced Thursday that trade turnover between Russia and India has reached unprecedented levels, underscoring the strength of bilateral ties despite mounting US pressure. Speaking at a press conference in Moscow alongside Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Lavrov said Moscow may further increase oil deliveries to its eastern partner.
His remarks came after Washington threatened to impose an additional 25% tariff on New Delhi for purchasing Russian fuel. Following the announcement, Indian state-owned refineries briefly halted Russian oil imports on Aug. 7, but resumed purchases this week, with several state companies scheduling deliveries for September.
Addressing the conflict in Ukraine, Lavrov said he briefed his Indian counterpart on Moscow’s latest contacts with Washington, noting that Russia is considering how to implement the outcomes in a way that safeguards the security interests of all parties. He added that recent statements by Ukrainian politicians reflect an unwillingness to pursue peace, running counter to US President Donald Trump’s diplomatic efforts to end the war.
