Ukraine slams India over oil deals and drone components aiding Moscow

The head of the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, has accused India not only of financially supporting Russia's war against Ukraine through ongoing purchases of Russian oil but also of contributing to the production of strike drones used by Russian forces.

In a post on Telegram, Yermak stated that Indian-manufactured components had been found in Russian drones, particularly the Shahed/Geran models, which are used both on the front lines and against Ukrainian civilian targets. He stressed that such involvement must be stopped to halt the killing of Ukrainians.

"Unfortunately, we are finding Indian components in Russian strike drones," Yermak wrote, adding that it is essential to cut off Russia’s access to foreign-sourced parts. He also reiterated that the purchase of Russian energy continues to finance Moscow’s war, undermining efforts to restore peace.

To support his claims, Yermak linked to an article published by the Hindustan Times, which revealed that Ukraine had formally raised the issue with both the Indian government and the European Union. According to the report, electronic parts made or assembled by Indian companies have been found in Iranian-designed drones used by Russia, specifically the Shahed 136 model.

Two companies — Vishay Intertechnology and Aura Semiconductor — were identified as being involved in the supply chain for these drones. Ukrainian officials reportedly sent diplomatic communications to India’s Ministry of External Affairs at least twice after these components were discovered in Russian-operated drones last year.

Ukrainian concerns were also relayed to EU sanctions envoy David O’Sullivan during his visit to New Delhi in mid-July. During his trip, O’Sullivan briefed Indian officials on the latest EU sanctions package, which includes measures targeting Nayara Energy — an Indian refinery partially owned by Russia’s Rosneft — and a prohibition on importing refined oil products made from Russian crude.

India, along with China, has emerged as one of the largest purchasers of Russian oil since the start of the war in Ukraine. These purchases have become a vital revenue stream for the Kremlin, allowing Moscow to sustain its military operations.

Earlier this year, US President Donald Trump criticised India for continuing to import Russian oil. He warned of increased tariffs and condemned the apparent indifference to Ukrainian casualties, remarking that “they don't care how many people in Ukraine are dying from the Russian military machine.”

By Tamilla Hasanova