New Delhi, Sept. 4 -- Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov on Friday criticised Western sanctions and possible secondary tariffs targeting countries that continue to import Russian oil, saying those imposing such measures have chosen "pressure tactics instead of honest cooperation" over the particular matter.

Speaking to ANI on India-Russia energy ties and the impact of Western sanctions and possible secondary sanctions on countries buying Russian oil, Alipov said the key question was India's ability to protect its national interests.

"The question from my point of view is how confident India is. But it has shown that it's able to stand its ground and defend India's national security and national interests," Alipov said.

He said Ru...