Bessent’s ‘Very Good Actors’ Remark on India’s Russian Oil Buys Triggers Opposition Attack- Remarks by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent describing India as a “very good actor” in relation to purchases of Russian crude oil have sparked sharp criticism from opposition parties in India, triggering a fresh political debate over the country’s foreign policy and energy strategy.
Bessent made the comments during an interview with Fox Business, where he discussed global oil supply dynamics and the United States’ sanctions regime targeting Russian energy exports. According to him, Washington had recently allowed Indian refiners to accept certain shipments of Russian crude that were already in transit, as part of efforts to stabilize global oil markets.
“The world is very well supplied with oil,” Bessent said during the interview. He added that the US Treasury Department had agreed to let India, described as an ally, begin accepting Russian oil shipments that were already “on the water.”
“The Indians had been very good actors,” Bessent said. “We had asked them to stop buying sanctioned Russian oil this fall. They did. They were going to substitute it with US oil.”
His remarks come after the United States announced a 30-day window giving Indian refiners temporary flexibility to purchase Russian crude oil shipments that were already en route. The move, according to Bessent, was intended to ease potential supply pressures in the global oil market while maintaining broader sanctions on Russian energy exports.
Bessent also indicated that Washington may consider easing restrictions on additional shipments of Russian oil if doing so helps stabilize global energy supply. He said that hundreds of millions of barrels of sanctioned Russian crude are currently in transit around the world.
“By un-sanctioning them, Treasury can create supply,” Bessent said, suggesting that selectively lifting sanctions could help address temporary shortages in global oil markets. He added that the US government plans to continue announcing measures aimed at providing relief to the energy market during the ongoing geopolitical conflict involving Russia.
Opposition Questions Government’s Foreign Policy
However, Bessent’s characterization of India as a compliant partner has triggered strong reactions from opposition leaders in India. Several parties questioned the language used by US officials, particularly references to Washington “allowing” or “permitting” India to buy Russian oil.
Opposition leaders argued that such terminology suggests India’s energy decisions are being influenced or controlled by external powers, raising concerns about the country’s strategic autonomy.
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi sharply criticized the government, claiming India’s foreign policy decisions are increasingly shaped by external pressure. Without directly addressing Bessent’s remarks, Gandhi alleged that the government’s diplomatic approach reflects vulnerability to international leverage.
Other opposition parties also joined the criticism. Leaders from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) and the Aam Aadmi Party accused the central government of compromising national interests and undermining India’s sovereignty in its dealings with the United States.
The criticism intensified after social media discussions highlighted phrases such as “waiver,” “allow,” and “permission” in relation to India’s ability to purchase Russian oil. Opposition leaders argued that such language raises uncomfortable questions about whether India is being treated as a subordinate partner in global geopolitical negotiations.
Background: India’s Russian Oil Purchases
India has significantly increased its imports of Russian crude oil since Western countries imposed sanctions on Moscow following the conflict in Ukraine. Russian oil has often been sold at discounted prices, making it an attractive option for Indian refiners seeking to manage rising energy costs.
The Indian government has consistently defended its energy policy, arguing that its primary responsibility is to secure affordable energy for the country’s large population and rapidly growing economy.
Officials have also maintained that India’s oil purchases comply with international regulations and are driven by market considerations rather than geopolitical alignment.
However, India’s continued imports of Russian crude have occasionally created friction with Western nations, particularly the United States, which has sought to limit Russia’s energy revenues through sanctions.
Last year, US President Donald Trump imposed punitive tariffs of 25 percent on certain Indian exports, citing concerns over India’s continued purchases of Russian oil.
Balancing Energy Security and Geopolitics
The latest controversy highlights the delicate balancing act India faces in managing its energy security while navigating complex geopolitical relationships.
On one hand, Russian crude has helped India diversify its energy sources and secure relatively cheaper supplies during periods of global price volatility. On the other hand, the country must also manage its strategic partnerships with Western nations, particularly the United States.
Analysts say India’s energy policy reflects a pragmatic approach aimed at protecting national interests while maintaining diplomatic flexibility.
For now, Bessent’s remarks have added a new dimension to the ongoing political debate in India, with opposition parties using the comments to question the government’s handling of foreign policy and its relationship with Washington.
As global energy markets remain volatile and geopolitical tensions persist, India’s approach to oil imports and international partnerships is likely to remain under close scrutiny both at home and abroad. Day After US Sinks Iranian Frigate IRIS Dena, Another Iranian Ship Docks in India | Maya
