Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signaled that India should not be viewed as contributing to Russia’s war in Ukraine through its oil purchases, instead urging the United States and the European Union to work more closely with New Delhi on energy solutions. In an interview with Fox News host Brett Baier, Zelenskyy underlined that India is “mostly on our side,” even while acknowledging challenges over energy imports. His remarks come as Washington and Brussels continue to scrutinize India’s growing trade in Russian crude, with US President Donald Trump recently imposing tariff penalties over such purchases.
India ‘Mostly on Our Side’ Despite Energy Challenges
When asked if India and China were indirectly fueling the war by buying Russian oil, Zelenskyy responded that India largely remains supportive of Ukraine. “No, India is mostly on our side. We do have problems on energy but those can be managed,” he said, pushing back against the notion that New Delhi is undermining Kyiv’s war effort. He suggested that US and EU policymakers should develop practical energy strategies that address India’s needs rather than treating its oil imports as antagonistic.
By contrast, Zelenskyy was less optimistic about other powers. He acknowledged that Iran will “never” support Ukraine because of its hostility toward the United States, while describing China’s position as more complicated. “With China, it is more difficult because today it is not in their interest to not support Russia,” he said, signaling Beijing’s continuing tilt toward Moscow.
Call for Stronger Western Ties With New Delhi
Zelenskyy expressed confidence that President Donald Trump could manage tensions over Indian energy imports and urged European nations not to alienate New Delhi. “I think India mostly with us. Yes, we have these questions with energy, but I think that President Trump can manage it,” he told Fox News.
He went further in his advice to Europe, saying the EU must build closer and stronger ties with India rather than distancing itself. “To Europeans, make more close and strong relations with India. And I think we have to do everything not to withdraw from Indians and they will change their attitude to Russian energy sector,” he added.
By stressing engagement over confrontation, Zelenskyy’s remarks mark a nuanced recognition of India’s balancing act — maintaining energy security through discounted Russian oil while deepening its partnerships with the US and Europe. For Ukraine, the approach appears to be ensuring that New Delhi is encouraged to tilt further westward, rather than pushed away by criticism.
