In a recent interview with Sky News Australia during his visit, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar responded sharply to a question from Australian journalist Sharri Markson, who asked if India recognizes Australia's "angst" over its relationship with Russia. Jaishankar, known for his candid approach to geopolitical matters, made it clear that India’s foreign policy decisions are in its own interest and do not require validation from other countries.

When asked about the concern over India’s ties with Russia, Jaishankar stated, "I don't think we have given cause for any angst. In this day and age, countries don't have exclusive relationships." He added a striking analogy, referencing Pakistan and asking, "If I were to use that logic, I would say so many countries have relationships with Pakistan. Look at the angst it should cause me."

Jaishankar then elaborated on the significance of India’s ties with Russia, particularly in the context of global energy security. He explained that India's decision to continue buying Russian oil despite Western sanctions was crucial in preventing a global energy crisis and inflation. He emphasized, “If we had not made the moves we had, the energy markets would have taken a completely different turn.”

The minister also underscored India’s unique role as a bridge between conflicting parties. He stated, "The fact that we have a good relationship with Russia allows us to be a country in between which has the ability to talk to both Russia and Ukraine and try to find some intersection in those conversations." Jaishankar added that the world, including Australia, needs nations like India, who can help bring parties to the negotiation table, as "conflicts rarely end on the battlefield, mostly they end in negotiations."

This comment reflects India’s nuanced stance on the Ukraine conflict, where it has refused to take sides but has consistently called for dialogue and peaceful resolution. The Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has emphasized that India is not neutral but is firmly in favor of peace. Modi recently visited both Ukraine and Russia to advocate for dialogue, stressing that the current era is not one of war.

India’s decision to maintain its relationship with Russia, particularly buying oil despite global sanctions, has sparked criticism from the West, especially in light of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Dr. Jaishankar, however, countered these criticisms by stating that Europe needs to shed the mindset that its problems should dictate global actions, pointing out that India has the right to prioritize its own energy needs.