India, Feb. 18 -- Russia on Wednesday dismissed the US' assertion that India has agreed to stop importing Russian crude oil, saying it has "no reason" to believe New Delhi has changed its position on energy purchases.

Addressing her weekly briefing, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said India's continued purchase of Russian hydrocarbons benefits both countries and contributes to stability in the global energy market.

"We have no reason to believe that India has changed its position on buying Russian hydrocarbons," Zakharova said.

She also criticised recent statements by Donald Trump and Marco Rubio, accusing Washington of attempting to dictate terms to sovereign nations.

US claims and trade deal context

Russia's ...