The United States on Wednesday acknowledged India’s role in helping maintain stability in global oil markets, even as New Delhi continues to purchase crude oil from Russia.US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said India has been “a great partner” in ensuring that oil prices remain stable globally, underlining the importance of cooperation between the two countries in managing energy markets.“India has been a great partner in maintaining stable oil prices around the world,” Gor said, noting that Washington recognises India’s ongoing purchases of Russian oil as part of broader efforts to ensure stability in supply and pricing.India is among the world’s largest consumers and refiners of crude oil, making its role critical in balancing global demand and supply. Gor said that given this position, collaboration between Washington and New Delhi remains essential for maintaining stability in the international energy market.“India is one of the largest consumers and refiners of oil, and it is essential for the United States and India to work hand in hand for market stability for Americans and Indians,” the ambassador said.Since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India has significantly increased imports of discounted Russian crude. The move has drawn global attention but has also helped maintain steady supplies and keep domestic fuel prices in check.At the same time, the United States has urged India to scale down its purchases from Russia in an effort to curb revenues that Washington says support Russian President Vladimir Putin’s “war machine”. According to US officials, India did reduce some imports from Russia at certain stages, though the Indian government has not formally acknowledged such a move.Government sources said recently that India has never relied on permission from any country to purchase Russian crude, asserting that the country’s energy procurement decisions are guided solely by national interest and supported by diversified supply routes and robust reserves.The clarification follows international discussions around a recent US waiver allowing Indian refiners to continue buying Russian oil. Officials pointed out that such trade has continued since the Russia-Ukraine war began and said suggestions that the waiver “enables” these purchases overlook the fact that India has been importing Russian crude throughout the conflict.Sources further stressed that India’s energy security rests on a policy framework developed over the past decade. The country holds over 250 million barrels of crude oil and refined petroleum products—roughly 4,000 crore litres—providing a buffer of about seven to eight weeks across the supply chain.