New Delhi, Aug. 5 -- India has responded to recent concerns raised by the United States and some European countries regarding its continued imports of Russian crude oil.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) defended India's energy policy, stating that such criticism ignores the trade many Western nations themselves continue to have with Russia.

According to the MEA, while India has increased its energy imports from Russia, this was done to ensure affordable and reliable energy for its population in a volatile global market.

Officials pointed out that many traditional suppliers had redirected oil exports to Europe after the Ukraine conflict began, prompting India to look elsewhere, including Russia.

They also mentioned that India's t...