Trump Welcomes Reports of India Pausing Russian Oil
U.S. President Donald Trump has said that reports of India potentially halting Russian oil imports are “a good step,” though he added that he was not yet certain of the accuracy of these reports.
State Refiners Reportedly Shift Away from Russian Crude
Several Indian state-run oil companies, including Indian Oil Corporation and Bharat Petroleum, have reportedly paused spot market purchases of Russian crude. The decision appears to stem from narrowing discounts on Russian oil and increasing geopolitical pressure following U.S. warnings.
India Sticks to Market-Based Energy Policy
India has not confirmed a full stop in Russian oil imports. The government maintains that its energy sourcing is driven by national interest and market factors. Officials reiterated that decisions on crude suppliers are made independently and not based on external pressure.
Tariffs and Oil Linked in U.S. Trade Push
Trump’s comment comes just days after the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods, citing trade imbalances and India’s energy ties with Russia. He has warned that continued purchases of Russian oil and military hardware could lead to further penalties.
Rubio Labels Oil Trade as Diplomatic Hurdle
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently called India’s continued oil trade with Russia a “point of irritation” in the U.S.–India relationship. The Biden and now Trump administrations have both expressed concerns about India’s energy alignment with Moscow.
Major Impact if Oil Trade Stops Fully
India imported roughly 35% of its crude oil from Russia in the last financial year, with trade exceeding ₹4 lakh crore. A complete halt in imports could increase India’s dependence on more expensive Middle Eastern and West African oil, affecting fuel prices and refining margins.
Private Refiners Still Buying Russian Oil
While public sector refiners may have paused Russian spot purchases, private companies like Reliance and Nayara Energy continue imports under existing long-term contracts. Analysts say India is trying to balance its strategic autonomy with global diplomatic dynamics.
