Amid ongoing pressure from the US over its energy ties with Russia, India has chosen a quiet but assertive approach to defend its national interests and highlight Western hypocrisy. In the last 48 hours, India responded effectively—without direct confrontation—bringing historical context and current realities to the world’s attention.

On August 4, 2025, India’s Ministry of External Affairs issued a pointed statement, explaining that Indian oil imports from Russia rose only after traditional suppliers shifted shipments to Europe when the Ukraine conflict began. The ministry emphasized that the US had, in fact, encouraged Indian imports from Russia to keep global energy prices stable and ensure affordability for Indian consumers.

Significantly, the ministry’s statement highlighted that many Western countries, including the US, remain deeply engaged in trade with Russia, importing uranium for nuclear power, palladium for electric vehicles, fertilizers, and chemicals—none of which are as vital to their national survival as India’s energy needs. The ministry called out this criticism as “unfair and unreasonable.”

A day later, on August 5, the Indian Army’s Eastern Command posted an old 1971 newspaper article showing how America supplied Pakistan with billions in arms—in partnership with China—during a time when India’s national security was at stake. This historical reminder quietly underscored the self-interest that frequently guides US foreign policy decisions.

Through these diplomatic signals, India demonstrated that it will not bow to pressure. By exposing both ongoing and historical double standards, India asserts its right to make independent decisions, especially in matters critical to its economy and security.