‘Our perspective must be respected’: Jaishankar draws red line on Russian Oil & US sanctions in Kyiv

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar delivered a strong message on India’s purchase of Russian oil during a joint press conference in Kyiv with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Responding to a question on whether India could reduce Russian oil purchases amid possible US sanctions, Jaishankar stressed the challenge of securing energy for 1.4 billion people. He said the Russia-Ukraine war cannot be resolved by deciding who buys or does not buy oil, minerals or fertilisers, but through dialogue, diplomacy and negotiations. Jaishankar also called for India’s position to be respected.