Russia's Foreign Ministry stated on February 18, 2026, that it has no reason to believe India has altered its position on purchasing Russian oil. This comes amid U.S. claims that India agreed to halt such imports as part of a trade deal. The ministry emphasized the mutual benefits of these purchases for energy market stability.
On February 18, 2026, Russia's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova addressed recent U.S. assertions during her weekly briefing. She stated, “We have no reason to believe that India has changed its position on buying Russian hydrocarbons. India’s purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and helps maintain stability in the international energy market.”
The comments responded to claims by U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio that India committed to stopping Russian crude oil imports. Zakharova remarked, “There is nothing new in the claims of U.S. President Donald Trump, as well as U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who have grabbed the right to dictate to independent nations.”
This follows a phone conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trump, leading to a U.S. announcement reducing tariffs on Indian goods from 50% to 18%. The deal removed a 25% tariff imposed on India in August 2025 over its Russian oil purchases. Last week, Rubio reiterated India's commitment to end such buys, shortly after New Delhi stressed that national interests guide its energy procurement.
India has neither confirmed nor denied the U.S. claims. Russia has previously accused Washington of using coercive measures, including tariffs and sanctions, to deter countries from buying its oil. Zakharova also criticized European allies supporting Ukraine for opposing peace efforts.
