'Got India's commitment to stop buying Russian oil,' claims Marco Rubio at Munich conference; Jaishankar reiterates ‘strategic autonomy’
Times of India
by TOI BUSINESS DESKFebruary 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed at the Munich Security Conference that India has committed to ceasing the purchase of additional Russian oil, a move influenced by Western pressure amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Speaking alongside European counterparts, Rubio emphasized that the US and its allies are maintaining sanctions on Russia while testing whether Moscow is serious about ending the war. He expressed uncertainty about Russia’s intentions, noting that talks over Ukraine have raised questions about whether Moscow is genuinely seeking peace.
India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, however, reiterated the country’s commitment to “strategic autonomy” during the conference. When asked about India’s energy ties with Russia, Jaishankar emphasized that India’s decisions on oil imports are based on market dynamics and national interest. He clarified that while India is open to dialogue, its strategic independence allows it to make choices aligned with its economic and security needs. This stance reflects India’s long-standing approach of balancing relationships with major powers without aligning fully with any single nation.
Rubio’s claims have been met with skepticism from Russia, which disputes the notion that India has agreed to stop buying Russian oil. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov denied such assertions, stating that no Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have confirmed this. Lavrov accused Washington of using coercive measures like sanctions and tariffs to discourage countries from purchasing Russian energy, calling it an unfair tactic in the global energy market.
The situation highlights the delicate balance India is navigating as it seeks to protect its national interests while maintaining relationships with both Western allies and Russia. As the world watches, this diplomatic dance underscores the complexities of international relations, particularly in a geopolitical landscape shaped by the ongoing Ukraine conflict and shifting energy dynamics.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/14/2026