India's External Affairs Minister Criticizes Unilateral Sanctions Ahead of U.S. Oil Waiver Expiry
External Affairs Minister Jaishankar hits out at ‘unilateral’ sanctions days before expiry of U.S.’ Russian oil waiver
The Hindu
Image: The Hindu
As the U.S. nears a decision on extending its waiver for Russian oil imports, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar condemned unilateral sanctions, asserting they disproportionately harm developing nations. This statement was made during the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting, attended by representatives from heavily sanctioned nations like Russia and Iran.
- 01S. Jaishankar criticized unilateral sanctions as unjustified and harmful to developing countries.
- 02India's oil imports from Russia surged to 1.96 million barrels per day in May 2026.
- 03The U.S. waiver on Russian oil imports is set to expire on May 16, 2026.
- 04Jaishankar emphasized the need for dialogue over coercive measures.
- 05India's policy on sanctions is influenced by the needs of its 1.4 billion citizens.
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During the BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting on May 14, 2026, India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar criticized unilateral sanctions that are not sanctioned by the United Nations, labeling them unjustified and detrimental to developing nations. He highlighted the significant increase in India's imports of Russian oil, which rose to 1.96 million barrels per day in May, up from 1.57 million barrels per day in April. This surge reflects Indian refiners' efforts to secure stable supplies amid geopolitical tensions in West Asia. The U.S. waiver allowing these imports is set to expire on May 16, 2026, with indications from U.S. officials that no extension will be granted. Jaishankar's remarks underscore India's stance against non-UN sanctions, despite practical compliance with U.S. sanctions for commercial reasons. The meeting was attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, representing countries heavily impacted by U.S. sanctions. Jaishankar's call for dialogue over coercive measures emphasizes the need for diplomatic solutions rather than pressure tactics.
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The potential expiration of the U.S. waiver could affect India's energy security and oil prices, impacting the daily lives of citizens reliant on stable energy supplies.
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