India will continue Russian oil imports despite increasing pressure from the United States. Two Indian government sources confirmed on August 2 that there has been no change in policy regarding energy trade with Moscow. This comes after former U.S. President Donald Trump issued threats of new penalties on countries purchasing Russian oil. However, Indian officials have stood firm, citing long-term contracts and national interests in energy security.
Trump’s Tariff Threats Fail to Sway India
Last month, Trump warned that countries buying oil from Russia could face 100% tariffs unless Moscow agrees to a peace deal with Ukraine. In a recent statement, he claimed that India had ceased buying Russian oil—a claim now contradicted by senior Indian officials. They clarified that the government has not directed oil companies to reduce Russian oil imports.
The Indian foreign ministry also responded to the claims. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stressed that India’s energy policy is independent and shaped by market dynamics and geopolitical realities. He added that India maintains a “steady and time-tested partnership” with Russia and does not make decisions based on third-party pressure.
India Maintains Its Energy Independence
Indian officials emphasized that energy security remains a top national priority. “These are long-term oil contracts,” said one source. “It is not so simple to just stop buying overnight.” Another source added that no internal policy adjustments have been made regarding the purchase of Russian oil.
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The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated this stance during a press briefing. Jaiswal explained that India bases its energy purchases on availability, pricing, and global trends. “Our relations with each country stand on their own merit,” he said.
Russian Oil Still India’s Top Supply Source
Russia remains India’s largest crude oil supplier, accounting for approximately 35% of total imports during the first half of 2025. India, the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, imported around 1.75 million barrels per day from Russia between January and June—up 1% from the same period last year.
Other major suppliers to India include Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Despite reduced discounts on Russian oil, India’s reliance on Moscow’s energy exports has not significantly shifted.
Refiners Adjust Short-Term Buying
While state-run refiners have temporarily paused new purchases of Russian oil due to narrowing discounts, officials clarified this is a commercial adjustment rather than a policy shift. Four industry sources told Reuters that companies like Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum, Hindustan Petroleum, and Mangalore Refinery Petrochemicals had not sought Russian cargoes in the past week.
These decisions stem from market conditions rather than political concerns. Sources said that shrinking discounts on Russian crude—caused by declining Russian exports and stable demand—made purchases temporarily less attractive. However, the contracts remain intact, and buying may resume if price conditions improve.
Western Sanctions Complicate Oil Trade
India’s continued oil trade with Russia comes amid a complex geopolitical environment shaped by Western sanctions. Nayara Energy, a key Indian refiner partly owned by Russia’s Rosneft, was recently sanctioned by the European Union. Despite such developments, Indian officials stress that domestic companies operate under Indian laws and remain aligned with national interests.
India has repeatedly defended its oil trade with Russia as a sovereign decision. Officials argue that energy affordability and access cannot be compromised, especially for a country with a growing population and rising energy demand.
U.S. Remains Silent on Indian Position
The White House has yet to respond publicly to India’s latest position. While Washington has tried to discourage purchases of Russian oil globally, India continues to balance its foreign policy by engaging with multiple partners. Analysts note that India’s approach reflects a pragmatic, non-aligned strategy, aimed at preserving its strategic autonomy.
Looking Ahead
As the global energy landscape evolves, India appears committed to securing affordable and reliable oil supplies, regardless of external pressure. Its continued imports from Russia signal a firm stance on energy independence and strategic sovereignty. In the months ahead, India’s position on Russian oil is likely to remain unchanged—shaped by economic needs rather than geopolitical ultimatums.