Russia’s Deputy Ambassador to India, Roman Babushkin, on Wednesday assured that Moscow’s crude oil exports to India will remain stable despite international sanctions and trade restrictions.

Speaking at a media briefing at the Russian Embassy in New Delhi, Babushkin stressed that Russian oil is unmatched in competitiveness and profitability. “Despite the current situation and evolving conditions, Russia’s crude oil exports to India are expected to remain the same. There is simply no alternative to Russian oil,” he said.

The diplomat noted that bilateral trade has grown nearly sevenfold in recent years, with Russia supplying about 250 million tonnes of crude annually to India. Oil exports typically carry an average five per cent discount, depending on negotiations. He added that the European Union’s 18th sanctions package had no effect on Moscow’s energy trade with New Delhi.

When asked about the possibility of India reducing or halting Russian oil imports, Babushkin dismissed the notion. “I don’t think that will ever happen,” he remarked, underlining that crude oil, alongside fertilizers and chemicals, remains the backbone of India-Russia trade.

Highlighting broader cooperation, he said that energy, nuclear power, infrastructure, culture, and diplomatic exchanges continue to drive the “special strategic partnership.” He pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have spoken twice this month, while External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is currently in Moscow for the Inter-Governmental Commission meeting with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

On Putin’s planned visit to New Delhi later this year, Babushkin said dates are yet to be finalized. He reiterated that sanctions destabilize the global order but affirmed Russia’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.