India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, responded to statements made by European Union (EU) foreign policy chief Joseph Borrell regarding Indian sales of refined products made from Russian crude oil. Jaishankar urged Borrell to consider the regulations set by the EU Council, stating that Russian crude oil undergoes significant transformation in a third country and is no longer considered Russian. He pointed Borrell's attention to Council Regulation 833/2014.
Borrell had previously called on Brussels to take action against India for reselling Russian oil to Europe in the form of refined fuel, particularly diesel. He argued that such activities could be seen as a circumvention of sanctions, and member states should respond accordingly.
In response, Jaishankar adopted a firm stance, emphasizing that the purchase of Russian gas by India does not contribute to funding conflicts. He questioned why the focus was solely on Indian funds and not on gas supplies from Russia to Europe, which could potentially support warfare. Jaishankar called for a fair and balanced approach, questioning why European countries and the United States do not allow Iranian and Venezuelan oil to enter the market. He expressed discontent with the restrictive practices that limit other sources of oil and prevent India from securing the best deals for its people.