India Continues Buying Russian Oil Amid U.S. Pressure, Cites National Interest
New Delhi: India has firmly maintained its stance on importing Russian crude oil, despite mounting pressure from the United States and claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump that India had ceased purchases.
Indian oil marketing companies (OMCs) are continuing to source Russian oil based on key factors such as price, quality, supply stability, and logistical convenience. India, the world’s third-largest energy consumer, has reiterated that its energy policy is guided by national interest and global market stability.
President Trump, responding to a query on potential penalties for India, said he “heard that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia,” calling it a “good step” if true. However, Indian officials have rejected both media reports and Trump’s statement, stressing that Russian oil purchases continue as normal.
According to experts, India’s engagement with Russian suppliers has contributed to global energy stability, especially during times when OPEC+ production cuts and war-related uncertainties pushed crude prices toward record highs. Had India not absorbed discounted Russian crude, oil prices could have exceeded $137 per barrel, worsening inflation globally.
Russia’s Role in Global Oil Trade
Russia, the second-largest oil exporter, supplies roughly 9.5 million barrels/day (mb/d), fulfilling about 10% of global demand. Despite the G7/EU price cap of $60 per barrel, Russian oil itself has never been sanctioned. India’s purchases have complied with international frameworks, in contrast to Iranian or Venezuelan oil, which is directly sanctioned.
The EU’s recent recommendation of a $47.6/bbl cap on Russian crude, effective from September, marks a tightening approach, but India remains within existing boundaries. Interestingly, the EU itself has remained the largest importer of Russian LNG, accounting for 51% of exports, ahead of China (21%) and Japan (18%).
India’s Stand: Pragmatic and Balanced
Sources reiterated that India’s energy decisions have been pragmatic and focused on ensuring affordable energy access for its citizens. While the West tightens its grip on Russian exports, India has acted as a responsible energy player, ensuring market liquidity and avoiding price shocks.
By continuing to buy Russian oil within the bounds of G7/EU pricing frameworks, India has kept global markets balanced, avoiding further economic disruption. The government continues to assert its sovereign right to conduct independent energy policy while being mindful of global partnerships and obligations.
India’s long-standing energy policy remains anchored in economic logic, legal compliance, and strategic autonomy—a model increasingly being studied by other developing economies facing similar geopolitical pressures.
