- The subject matter should receive unequivocal support from the global communities and their respective governments is indisputable. There is a well-established notion that one should be well fed first to enable serving others with goodies. There’s no way one can keep indulging in altruism when the precious resources available come at a premium to disburse for charity-related purposes. Definitely not at the cost of hurting your own interests which will decisively disable you from indulging in well-intentioned purposes subsequently. Similar sentiments apply to government dispensations too across the world. The governments are expected to ensure their respective citizens’ welfare and well-being are addressed before extending support/assistance to other countries.
PC: Jamie Roberts
- As you are aware, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has singed the entire global supply chain on some of the most critical commodities like fuel and cereals. Many European countries though were vociferous in demanding sanctions against Russian uncalled-for belligerence, the essential energy requirements forced these countries to continue receiving energy supplies, albeit at a reduced pace. Did someone mention this amount to hypocritical? Indeed, it is, but was there an alternative to completely isolate Moscow from proceeding ahead by blocking energy supplies? None at all. Against this backdrop, Ukraine’s foreign minister’s unusually dramatic statement pointing at India for buying Russian oil completely stands out of context.
- The foreign minister comparing Indian buy of Russian oil has a portion of Ukrainian blood is so characteristically out of place looked from the geopolitical and geostrategic point of view. Agreed, his country is at the brutal end of a Russian invasion. Also, he can critique India’s official neutrality as well. However, as a foreign minister, he surely knows each country has its own specific set of economic challenges and interests. Therefore, India’s foreign and economic policies must serve Indian interests first. Needless to mention, discounted Russian oil is a big help for a major economy that’s also a big oil importer and which until recently was battling rising crude prices. The math is clear: For every $1 increase in the price of oil, India’s import bill increased by $2.1 billion.
PC: Shariq Khan and Stephanie Kelly
- Additionally, the global supply of oil remains tight with a sanction on Iran, and with Europe snapping up energy deliveries from the Middle East. Moreover, Europe is continuing to buy Russian gas despite its active support for Ukraine against Russian military action. Yet, we don’t see Ukrainian authorities lecturing European Union on the purchase of Russian energy in such dramatic terms. Though the EU is providing critical military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, the Russian invasion poses a serious threat to wider European security. Mind you, India is not in the same boat. Thus, attempting to guilt-trip India about Russian oil won’t work. On the contrary, it could see Government of India turn cold towards the Ukrainian cause.
