{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/Pages/india/politics/congress-questions-centre-over-us-blackmail-after-30-day-waiver-on-russian-oil-purchase"},"headline":"Congress Questions Centre Over U.S. ‘Blackmail’ After 30-Day Waiver on Russian Oil Purchase","description":"Congress has accused the Centre of yielding to U.S. pressure after reports of a 30-day waiver related to India’s purchase of Russian oil, demanding clarification from the government.","image":["https://res.cloudinary.com/donttjaap/image/upload/v1772775095/primetime_news/ctqasm0poj605i3qstkk.jpg"],"datePublished":"2026-03-06T05:31:35.904Z","dateModified":"2026-03-06T05:31:35.904Z","author":{"@type":"Person","name":"Riddhima Vashisht","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com"},"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Time Cyber Media","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://www.timecybermedia.com/logo.png"}},"articleSection":"india","articleBody":"

The opposition Congress has questioned the central government over reports that the United States granted a 30-day waiver concerning India's continued purchase of Russian oil, alleging that the development indicates diplomatic pressure on New Delhi.

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Congress leaders described the situation as a form of “blackmail,” arguing that India should not allow external powers to influence its energy security decisions. The party demanded a clear explanation from the government regarding the terms of the waiver and whether any commitments were made to Washington.

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India has significantly increased its imports of Russian crude oil since the start of the Ukraine conflict, taking advantage of discounted prices in global markets. The government has repeatedly defended the purchases, stating that the country’s energy needs and economic interests remain the top priority.

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Officials have maintained that India follows an independent foreign policy and engages with multiple partners while safeguarding national interests. They have also pointed out that many countries continue to trade with Russia despite geopolitical tensions.

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The latest remarks from the opposition have intensified the political debate over India’s energy strategy and its balancing act between strategic partnerships with Western nations and long-standing ties with Moscow.