India’s envoy to Russia, Vinay Kumar, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to securing energy by purchasing oil from the best sources, amidst US criticism of its discounted Russian crude imports. He emphasized that India’s energy procurement is driven by national interests and market dynamics, rejecting claims that such purchases finance Russia’s war in Ukraine. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar echoed this sentiment, questioning the hypocrisy of US criticism when other nations, including the US and Europe, continue trade with Russia. India’s focus remains on ensuring energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens, and it will pursue measures that protect its national interests.