🔆 U.S. Criticism of India’s Trade with Russia – Factual but Illogical
📍 Summary (UPSC Focus)
• U.S. imposed 25% tariff on Indian goods over continued cheap oil imports from Russia.
• India termed the criticism selective, citing that EU imports from Russia have also surged since 2022.
• Post-Ukraine war, Russia emerged as India’s largest crude oil supplier, along with key imports of fertilizers, coal, and military equipment.
• Over 50% of India’s arms imports come from Russia.
• MEA stressed energy security, diversification, and rejection of double standards in global trade narratives.
📍 Prelims Practice Question
Which of the following statements about India-Russia trade post-2022 is/are correct?
1. Russia became India’s largest crude oil supplier after 2022.
2. Over 50% of India’s arms imports are sourced from Russia.
3. The EU’s imports of Russian fossil fuels have decreased since 2022.
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only ✅
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
?>? Mains Practice Question
Critically examine the geopolitical and economic implications of India’s increasing in energy and defence trade with Russia in the context of Western sanctions and U.S. criticism. (250 words)
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