Indian officials say India will buy Russian oil despite President Trump’s threats. - New York times

Indian officials say India will buy Russian oil despite President Trump’s threats. - New York times

Despite President Donald Trump's recent claims and threats, Indian officials have confirmed that the country's refiners continue to purchase Russian crude oil. The decision is guided by economic factors such as price, logistics, and the global energy market's dynamics. India, the world's third-largest energy consumer with an 85% dependence on crude oil imports, has adjusted its sourcing strategy to secure energy at affordable prices while complying with international regulations [1].

Trump's remarks came after he announced a 25% tariff on Indian goods, effective August 1, and an unspecified penalty for buying Russian military equipment and energy. However, Indian officials have maintained that their oil purchases are commercial decisions, driven by market prices and global conditions [2]. The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, acknowledged India's need for energy but expressed frustration with the continued Russian oil imports, stating that they are helping to sustain Moscow's war efforts in Ukraine [3].

Recent vessel tracking data shows that Indian refiners have significantly reduced Russian oil imports in July, with deliveries falling to 1.6 million barrels per day, a 24% decrease from June levels and a 23.5% drop from the same period last year [3]. This reduction is part of a broader trend of Indian refiners pivoting away from Moscow's oil, driven by increasing pressure from the US and Europe.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between energy security and geopolitical pressure. While India is taking steps to diversify its energy sources, the country must navigate the complex dynamics of global energy markets and geopolitical tensions. Any breakthrough in the Russia-Ukraine war could potentially ease the pressure on buyers of Russian crude, but for now, Indian refiners must adapt to the shifting landscape of global energy trade.

References:
[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/india-continuing-to-buy-oil-from-russia-report-rebuts-donald-trumps-good-steps-claim-decision-guided-by-national-interest-and-global-energy-stability/articleshow/123055727.cms
[2] https://www.rediff.com/news/report/indias-oil-imports-from-russia-irritate-us-says-marco-rubio/20250731.htm
[3] https://indianexpress.com/article/business/us-trump-tariff-penalty-threat-india-russian-oil-imports-10165226/