Zelenskyy says India is “mostly with Ukraine” despite Trump accusing New Delhi of funding Russia’s war through discounted oil imports.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has spoken out about India’s position in the Russia-Ukraine war after former U.S. President Donald Trump accused New Delhi of being one of the “main funders” of Moscow’s war machine. Zelenskyy, in contrast, took a softer approach, saying that India is “mostly on our side” even though questions remain about its continued purchase of Russian oil.
Trump Calls India and China “Primary Funders”
Trump has repeatedly criticized India and China for buying Russian crude, arguing that this trade gives Moscow the money it needs to prolong its war in Ukraine. He has even floated the idea of tariffs on these countries, pushing for a tougher global stance against Russia’s energy exports.
This criticism comes as the West tries to tighten sanctions and close off any economic lifelines that help Russia sustain its military campaign.
Also Read: Navratri Day 3: Significance, Rituals, Color, and Blessings of Maa Chandraghanta
Zelenskyy’s Measured Response
In an interview after meeting Trump at the UN General Assembly, Zelenskyy distanced himself from the harsh accusations. “No, India is mostly with us. Yes, we have these questions with energy,” he said, adding that dialogue, not isolation, is the way forward.
The Ukrainian leader urged Western allies not to alienate India but to work with it patiently, hoping that its policies on Russian oil will gradually shift. Zelenskyy also contrasted India’s stance with China’s, describing Beijing as far harder to influence due to its deep ties with Moscow.
He expressed hope that Trump and European partners could play a role in encouraging India to reduce its dependence on Russian oil.
India’s Oil Imports from Russia
Since 2022, India has become one of Russia’s biggest oil customers, taking advantage of discounted crude after Western sanctions reshaped global trade routes. Before the war, Russia supplied only a small share of India’s oil needs, but now it provides around 35–40% of imports, at times surpassing China.
While critics say this trade indirectly funds Russia’s war, Indian officials maintain that these purchases are legal under international rules and necessary for the country’s energy security. They argue that New Delhi cannot simply cut off affordable oil supplies when domestic needs are so high.
The Diplomatic Balancing Act
Zelenskyy’s comments highlight Ukraine’s careful approach to India: recognizing its energy realities while trying to bring it closer to Kyiv’s position. He warned against pushing India away through threats or isolation, stressing that persuasion and engagement are more effective.
At the same time, the pressure on India is growing, with talk of U.S. tariffs and secondary sanctions if Russian oil trade continues at high levels. For New Delhi, the challenge is balancing affordable energy for its people with increasing geopolitical pressure from Washington, Brussels, and Kyiv.
FAQs on the Issue
Q1. Why did Trump accuse India of funding Russia’s war?
Because India continues to buy large amounts of Russian oil, which provides revenue that Russia can use for its war effort.
Q2. What did Zelenskyy mean by “mostly with us”?
He suggested that while India’s oil trade with Russia is a concern, overall, he sees India as supportive of Ukraine rather than opposed.
Q3. Is India violating any sanctions by buying Russian oil?
No. India’s trade with Russia is technically within international law. Indian officials argue these purchases are about economic necessity and energy security.
Q4. Can the U.S. and Europe push India to change its stance?
Possibly, but it’s difficult. Tariffs and sanctions could raise costs, but Zelenskyy believes dialogue and cooperation are more likely to influence India in the long run.
Also Read: ‘Masti 4’ का टीज़र रिलीज़: इस बार होगा चार गुना धमाल, जानें कब होगी रिलीज़
