New Delhi, Aug. 4 -- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday came out strongly in defence of the country's decision to import oil from Russia, despite criticism from the United States and European Union.

According to the MEA, India's imports from Russia are driven by necessity and aimed at ensuring predictable and affordable energy costs for Indian consumers.

The MEA described the criticism of India's trade policy as "unjustified and unreasonable," asserting that India will take necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.

In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that India's crude imports from Russia were prompted by disruptions in traditional supply chains after the co...