Indian goods facing US tariffs welcome in Russia: Senior diplomat Roman Babushkin

New Delhi: Russia wants to increase bilateral trade with India and is willing to purchase more goods if those are diverted due to US tariff policies. Russia continues to be India's biggest source of crude.

Addressing a select media gathering here on Wednesday in the backdrop of the US tariffs, Alaska Summit and the external affairs minister's Moscow visit, Roman Babushkin, Charge d'Affairs of the Russian Embassy in India, said US' pressure on India over the latter's procurement of Russian crude oil was "unjustified" and "unilateral".

"We don't expect that to happen (India to stop buying oil from Russia). We know about the challenging circumstances for India. This is the true strategic partnership we are enjoying. Whatever happens, even during challenges, we are committed to removing any problems," he said.

The discounts provided on Russian oil is attractive and Indian imports of Russian crude are being maintained at the same levels.

"If Indian goods are facing difficulties entering the US market, the Russian market will welcome Indian exports," he said, adding, "The sanctions are hitting those who are imposing them. It is a challenging situation for India but we have trust in our ties. We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure".

"If the West criticises you, it means you are doing everything right," the Russian diplomat asserted.