On September 3, 2026, Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar defended India’s continued purchases of Russian oil during a joint press conference in Kyiv with Ukraine’s counterpart Andrii Sybiha. “This conflict, now entering its fifth year, cannot be resolved through energy trade alone,” Jaishankar stated. “It requires dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiation.”

Jaishankar emphasized that the war resolution depends on diplomatic efforts, not economic measures such as oil purchases or sales of alumina, minerals, metals, or fertilizers. When asked whether India would reduce Russian oil imports under potential U.S. sanctions, Jaishankar highlighted the challenges of providing energy for 1.4 billion people amid a “very, very difficult” global energy situation.

According to maritime intelligence firm Kpler, Russia supplied India with approximately 2.1 million barrels per day last month—representing 45% of the country’s crude oil imports. Volumes were lower than the record 2.8 million barrels per day imported in July as Indian refiners scaled back some purchases.

Jaishankar reiterated that New Delhi respects Ukraine’s perspective on Russian energy but expects India’s position to be acknowledged. He also stressed that military action would only intensify death and destruction, while offering India’s assistance to parties seeking a peaceful resolution. New Delhi maintains engagement with both Moscow and Kiev.

The remarks follow the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, which cleared the U.S. Senate earlier this month and awaits consideration by the House of Representatives. The legislation would impose up to 100% tariffs on the top five buyers of Russian oil and gas, with Ukraine actively lobbying for its passage.

Additionally, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on August 31, where he stated: “we have to move from endless war to the end of war, which is in humanity’s interest.” Jaishankar’s trip marked the first dedicated visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Ukraine.