India Stands Firm: Russian Oil Buys to Continue
Senior Indian officials confirmed this week that the country will keep importing Russian crude oil, undeterred by President Trump’s latest tariff threats and U.S. warnings of “consequences” for energy deals with Moscow. [Reuters]
Long-Term Contracts Loom Large
Authorities say the deals are long-term and can’t unwind overnight—even with new diplomatic pressure.
Economic Decisions Trump Geopolitics
Indian refiners say supply decisions follow economics—price, crude type, logistics, not international pressure.
Stabilizing Global Oil Markets
Importers argue discounted Russian crude helps moderate global oil prices, benefiting markets worldwide. [Economic Times]
Import Volume & Scale: Still India’s #1 Supplier
In H1 2025, India received 1.75 million barrels/day from Russia, up 1% year-on-year and 35% of total imports. July saw a dip to 1.6M bpd (24% down), share now at 34%. [Hindustan Times]
Trump's Tariffs Land, But Policy Unchanged
Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods effective August 2, with further penalties tied to Russian oil/arms purchases. New Delhi denies instructing refiners to stop Russian buys.
Double Standards? India, Analysts Critique West’s Position
Officials and analysts highlight Western hypocrisy—Europe imports Russian energy but condemns India for buying oil.
Stakes: Billions & Inflation at Home
Analysts estimate losing Russian oil could raise India's import bill by $9–11 billion and drive inflation up. [Times of India]