Russian oil supplies to India continue: Manturov
His gesture reflected deep respect for the enduring legacy of the Soviet people’s courage and resilience.
Russian Oil and Energy Supplies to India Continue, Manturov Says; Jaishankar Co-Chairs Intergovernmental Talks in Moscow
Moscow: Russia’s energy lifeline to India remains uninterrupted, with crude oil, coal, and petroleum products continuing to flow steadily, Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov confirmed on Wednesday. Speaking at the 26th session of the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific-Technological and Cultural Cooperation (IRIGC-TEC), Manturov underlined Moscow’s intent not just to maintain, but also to deepen its energy partnership with India in the coming years.
His statement comes at a time when global energy dynamics are shifting rapidly, and India’s role as a major consumer of Russian resources is becoming even more pronounced.
On the Indian side, the commission was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who is on a three-day official visit to Moscow. Both sides described the meeting as an important step in strengthening the multi-dimensional partnership that has historically defined India-Russia relations.
Manturov also highlighted the remarkable shift in trade settlements between the two nations. According to him, more than 90 percent of transactions are now being conducted in national currencies — the Indian rupee and the Russian ruble — helping both countries navigate the complex web of Western sanctions and financial restrictions. “An equally important task, especially in the current realities, is to ensure seamless mutual settlements.
Another key focus of discussions was nuclear energy cooperation. Manturov pointed to the ongoing Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant project in Tamil Nadu as a model of successful collaboration. “We expect to expand comprehensive cooperation in the peaceful nuclear sector, including on the basis of the successful experience of the Kudankulam NPP construction project,” he said.
At the conclusion of the session, Jaishankar and Manturov signed the official protocol of the IRIGC-TEC. While the finer details of the agreements have not yet been disclosed, both governments are expected to release them soon in Moscow and New Delhi.
Jaishankar’s visit was not limited to economic and trade engagements. In a symbolic gesture of respect, he laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Kremlin Wall, paying homage to the millions of Soviet soldiers who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The solemn ceremony reflected the historic bonds of solidarity that connect India and Russia, both of which endured immense struggles during the 20th century.
During his stay in Moscow, Jaishankar is also scheduled to hold crucial talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in China, set to take place from August 31 to September 1. This summit-level interaction is being seen as an opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm their strategic trust and expand cooperation in areas ranging from defense to connectivity.
The backdrop to these talks is complex. Relations between New Delhi and Washington have recently taken a sharp downturn after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a doubling of tariffs on Indian goods, raising them to 50 percent. More controversially, Washington has also slapped additional duties of 25 percent on India’s imports of Russian crude oil, a move that could come into effect as early as August 27. The U.S. administration argues that these measures are designed to put pressure on Moscow over the ongoing Ukraine conflict. However, for India — which has significantly increased its purchases of discounted Russian oil since 2022 — the new tariffs could pose fresh economic and diplomatic challenges.
Despite these headwinds, both Moscow and New Delhi appear determined to strengthen their partnership. Energy remains the centerpiece of the relationship, but there is growing emphasis on broadening cooperation in sectors such as nuclear power, technology, and cultural exchanges. For India, access to affordable Russian energy provides a cushion against global price volatility. For Russia, India represents not only a reliable buyer but also a long-term partner willing to engage despite geopolitical pressures.
As Jaishankar’s Moscow visit unfolds, it is clear that India and Russia are striving to navigate turbulent global waters together. With energy, defense, and strategic trust at the core of their dialogue, both sides seem intent on safeguarding a partnership that has withstood decades of shifting geopolitical currents.