US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said American sanctions linked to Russian oil purchases did not specifically target India. He said the sanctions formed part of a broader US effort to pressure Russia over the Ukraine war.
Rubio made the remarks during an interview with CNN-News18 while visiting India on a four-day trip. He explained that India became one of the biggest buyers of Russian crude after the war began because of discounted prices and changing global supply chains.
“The issue of Russian oil was never specifically about India. It was part of a broader effort to impose costs on Russia because of the Ukraine war, and India happened to be a major purchaser of Russian oil."
US Wants India to Diversify Energy Imports
Rubio said the United States wants India to buy more energy from America and other countries, including Venezuela. He added that Washington wants to become a strong and reliable energy partner for New Delhi.
“We want to be a strong partner in that regard, and I don’t believe this is an issue. India is already moving toward diversification, and hopefully the war in Ukraine will end.”
He said India has already started diversifying its energy imports. He also expressed hope that the Ukraine conflict would eventually end.
India Earlier Received Waiver on Russian Oil
The United States had earlier allowed India to continue receiving already-loaded Russian oil cargoes. Washington granted the waiver during rising tensions in West Asia and concerns over oil supply disruptions.
Global crude oil prices increased sharply during the period because of geopolitical tensions and fears over energy security. India has repeatedly said it makes energy decisions based on national interest and supply stability.
Rubio Criticises Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
Rubio also blamed Iran for rising oil prices. He accused Tehran of trying to control the Strait of Hormuz illegally. He described Iran as a “fractured system led by radicals” and said such actions threaten global trade and energy movement.
“This is a total violation and is not allowed under any law. The United States and India both share very common beliefs,” he said. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil routes. Any disruption there directly affects countries that depend heavily on imported oil, including India.
India and US Share Similar Views
Rubio said India and the United States remain closely aligned on major international issues. He said he discussed the matter with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their meeting.
“I think India and the United States are perfectly aligned. And we spoke about it today with the Prime Minister, who was very forceful about that as well. Obviously, as far as the negotiations are concerned, it’s not easy to negotiate with Iran. It’s a fractured system led by radical clerics. But that said, we’re going to give it every opportunity,” Rubio added.
His visit highlighted growing cooperation between India and the US on energy, security, trade, and Indo-Pacific strategy.
Rubio Invites PM Modi to White House
Rubio also invited Modi to visit the White House on behalf of US President Donald Trump. The invitation signaled another step toward strengthening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two countries.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor later shared details of the meeting on X and confirmed the invitation.