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India's Oil Imports Crucial Amid US Claims, Says Russia

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 18, 2026, Russia's Foreign Ministry said India has not changed its policy on buying Russian oil.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, said India's oil imports are crucial for global energy security.
The statement follows United States claims that India agreed to halt imports, which India has not confirmed or denied.
Russian officials say, despite a temporary drop, Russia remains India's largest supplier and trade remains significant.

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Story summary

On February 18, 2026, Russia's Foreign Ministry said India has not changed its policy on buying Russian oil.
Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, said India's oil imports are crucial for global energy security.
The statement follows United States claims that India agreed to halt imports, which India has not confirmed or denied.
Russian officials say, despite a temporary drop, Russia remains India's largest supplier and trade remains significant.