'Why single out India?': Piyush Goyal's question on West's 'double standards' over Russian oil leaves UK trade minister fumbling

Goyal asked the question in a round table discussion with UK Trade Minister Douglas Alexander while comparing the sanctions the two nations faced over Russian state-owned oil giant Rosneft.

How did the conversation flow?

Goyal: I was reading in today's paper, Germany is asking for exemption from US sanctions on oil... The UK already has sorted and probably got an exemption for procuring oil from the US.

Alexander: No, no, no. This is about the Rosneft... We have sorted out all the issues with Germany. We managed to do that very quickly and I think the Americans would do something very similar.

Goyal: So then, why single out India?"

Alexandler: (Fumbles) Well, it's a specific subsidiary in relation to Rosneft

Goyal: We also have a subsidiary in India of Rosneft.

Alexander: Well, come and talk to us.

Goyal: Laughs.

Alexander: My door is always open... 

India v US over Russian oil purchase

The Trump administration, which was earlier viewed as India-friendly, has slapped a 25 percent tariff on the South Asian country for its high tariffs on American exports and another 25 percent for purchasing oil from Russia, which is fighting a war against Ukraine.

Since the conflict in Ukraine began in early 2022, India significantly increased its imports of discounted Russian crude oil—now comprising over 30 percent of its total crude imports.

Indian refineries then export refined petroleum products globally, which critics, especially in the U.S., argue indirectly supports Russia’s war effort by funneling money into its economy.

In response, the US proposed tariffs and trade measures targeting India’s exports to discourage this behavior.

India said that, like any major economy, it will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.

Modi unequivocally said India won't compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen and livestock rearers.