US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed understanding of India’s stance on the Ukraine conflict while cautioning allies and partners against increased Russian energy purchases. Blinken told a joint media briefing following the conclusion of the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue between India’s and the US’ defense and foreign ministers that New Delhi’s relationship with Moscow developed over decades when the US was unable to be a partner of the South Asian country.

“India’s relationship with Russia evolved over decades at a time when the United States was unable to be India’s partner,” Blinken told reporters.

However, he added that “times have changed” and that the US is now “able and willing to be a partner of choice with India in virtually every realm: commerce, technology, education, and security.”

“And that was very much the nature of our conversation today.”

Concerning Russian oil purchases and sanctions, the top American diplomat stated that “there are carve-outs for energy purchases.”

“Of course, we advise countries not to buy additional energy supplies from Russia.” Every country is unique, with unique needs and requirements, but we are asking our allies and partners not to increase their purchases of Russian energy,” he said.

When asked if Washington was considering sanctioning India for acquiring S-400 air defense systems, Blinken urged all nations to avoid major weapons transactions with Russia, particularly in light of the invasion of Ukraine.

“We have not yet made a decision on potential sanctions or waivers under the CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) legislation.”

India is a major purchaser of Russian-made weapons, such as tanks and missile systems, and has signed contracts, including the purchase of Russia’s S-400 air defense system. India has refused to join Western sanctions against Russia, claiming that its defense procurements are guided by a strategic autonomy policy.

In the midst of the ongoing debate over Russia’s energy purchases, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that India’s “monthly purchases would be less than what Europe does in an afternoon.”