‘Why target India alone?’: Goyal hits out at UK minister over oil sanctions hypocrisy

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal questioned Western nations for what he called “double standards” on Russian oil sanctions. He asked why India was being singled out when several European nations continue trading with Moscow under quiet exemptions.

Goyal raised the issue during a discussion with UK Trade Minister Douglas Alexander. The two leaders compared sanctions related to Rosneft, Russia’s state-owned oil giant. As the UK minister admitted that London and Berlin had already resolved their energy supply issues with Washington’s approval, Goyal asked bluntly, “So then why single out India?”

The exchange, captured on video, quickly spread across social media. Many users praised Goyal’s firm tone and direct challenge to the British minister. They said his remarks reflected India’s growing confidence in defending its economic choices.

Alexander, taken aback by the pointed question, responded that the concern involved “a specific subsidiary in relation to Rosneft.” He added, “Come and talk to us. My door is always open,” suggesting an openness to dialogue.

Goyal, however, pushed the matter further. He noted that India also hosts Rosneft-linked subsidiaries and argued that sanctions should apply consistently to all nations. “You cannot have one rule for Europe and another for India,” he said, according to officials present at the discussion.

The conversation reignited debate over how Western countries interpret sanctions against Russia. Observers say European allies often secure waivers or enjoy leniency from Washington, while countries such as India and China face diplomatic pressure for maintaining energy ties with Moscow.

India has repeatedly defended its oil trade with Russia. Officials say New Delhi purchases crude based on national interest and economic logic. They argue that Russian oil helps stabilize India’s energy market and reduce import costs. “We buy from wherever it’s affordable and reliable,” a senior Indian official said recently.

The latest exchange between Goyal and Alexander came just days after the United States announced new sanctions against major Russian oil firms, including Rosneft and Lukoil. Washington said the move followed Moscow’s lack of commitment to peace efforts in Ukraine.

Following the sanctions, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed that India and China had begun reducing Russian oil imports at the request of President Donald Trump. Indian officials, however, did not confirm any such action. They said India continues to make independent decisions on energy sourcing.

Currently, India faces a 50 percent tariff on certain trade items imposed by the US, half of which are linked to its continued oil purchases from Russia. Indian analysts describe these penalties as an example of economic coercion aimed at limiting India’s policy freedom.

As the global energy market shifts, India maintains that its decisions align with international law and reflect practical realities. Goyal’s remarks underscore a broader message — New Delhi will not accept selective criticism while others quietly bend the rules.