Not violation of sanctions however Russian oil deal might put India on incorrect facet of historical past, says US

On studies that India could take up Russia’s provide of oil at a reduced value, the US stated it won’t be a violation of American sanctions however might put India on the incorrect facet of historical past.

PM Modi, US President Biden (Photo: File)

Responding to studies that India could take up Russia’s provide of discounted crude oil, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki stated on Tuesday that it could not be a violation of US sanctions on Russia amid the Ukraine invasion.

Asked pointedly about the identical at a press convention, Jen Psaki stated, “I do not consider this could be violating that [sanctions].”

However, she added that such a decision could put India on the wrong side of history. “But also think about where you want to stand when history books are written at this moment in time. Support for the Russian leadership is support for an invasion that obviously is having a devastating impact,” Jen Psaki said.

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She added, “Our message to any nation continues to be that abide by the sanctions that we have now put in place and really helpful.”

‘INDIA’S RESPONSIBILITY’

Earlier, in a statement on the matter, Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera said it was India’s responsibility to ensure its actions do not support Russia and its invasion.

“If studies are correct and India makes this determination to purchase Russian oil at a reduced value, New Delhi could be selecting to facet with Vladimir Putin at a pivotal second in historical past when nations internationally are united in assist of the Ukrainian individuals and towards Russia’s lethal invasion,” he said.

Ami Bera said, “As the world’s largest democracy and as a pacesetter of the Quad, India has a accountability to make sure its actions don’t instantly or not directly assist Putin and his invasion.”

INDIA ON UKRAINE WAR

Russia invaded Ukraine on February 24, triggering an enormous refugee disaster and the deaths of a number of hundred civilians. India has constantly urged all stakeholders to resolve variations by means of dialogue. However, India abstained in all United Nations resolutions towards Russia.

Western nations have imposed a number of sanctions and monetary penalties on Russia in a bid to pressurise it into halting its offensive in Ukraine.

(With inputs from PTI)