Jaishankar criticizes unilateral sanctions as Russian oil waiver nears expiry.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized "unilateral coercive measures and sanctions" as inconsistent with international law, particularly as the U.S. waiver on Russian oil purchases for India neared its May 16 expiry. He stated that such measures disproportionately affect developing countries and cannot substitute dialogue. India's oil imports from Russia surged in May, indicating refiners' rush to secure supplies amid West Asia blockades. Despite maintaining a policy against non-UN sanctions, India has often complied with U.S. sanctions for commercial reasons. Jaishankar emphasized that India's policy is guided by the interests of its 1.4 billion citizens.
Key Points
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned "unilateral coercive measures and sanctions" as being against international law.
- The criticism comes as the U.S. waiver allowing India to purchase Russian oil was set to expire on May 16.
- India's oil imports from Russia significantly increased in May, reflecting efforts to secure stable supplies amidst geopolitical tensions.
- India's official stance is against non-UN sanctions, but it has historically complied with U.S. sanctions for commercial reasons.
- Jaishankar affirmed that India's foreign policy decisions are driven by the national interests of its 1.4 billion population.
Exam Facts
- External Affairs Minister: S. Jaishankar.
- U.S. waiver on Russian oil purchases expires May 16.
- Russian oil imports surged to 1.96 million barrels per day in May.
- Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
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