India and Russia share a “steady and time-tested partnership,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) affirmed on Friday, amid renewed U.S. criticism over India’s continued trade with Moscow.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, speaking at a weekly press briefing, reiterated that India’s foreign relations are guided by its own strategic interests and are not influenced by third-party perspectives. “Our ties with various countries stand on their own merit and should not be seen through the prism of a third country,” he said.

His remarks come in response to recent statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who described India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil as a “point of irritation” in U.S.-India relations. Rubio acknowledged India’s energy needs but warned that the discounted oil helps sustain Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine.

The controversy intensified after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff, plus an additional penalty, on Indian imports starting August 1. Trump criticized India’s high tariffs and trade barriers, calling them “obnoxious,” and accused New Delhi of undermining global efforts to isolate Russia.

“India is our friend, but their tariffs are among the highest in the world,” Trump posted on Truth Social. He claimed India’s energy and defense ties with Russia remain problematic, especially as the West seeks to pressure Moscow.

Despite the criticism, India has maintained that its strategic autonomy and energy security guide its decisions. The country has relied heavily on Russian military hardware and oil imports, especially in the context of fluctuating global prices and geopolitical shifts.

India’s reaffirmation of its Russia ties highlights its intent to maintain a balanced and sovereign foreign policy approach.