New Delhi — India has reaffirmed its commitment to continue importing crude oil from Russia, despite mounting pressure from the United States, including the threat of tariffs and sanctions under the Trump administration. Government sources have clarified that New Delhi’s energy decisions are based on long-term contracts, economic rationale, and strategic autonomy—not on geopolitical coercion.

The confirmation comes amid growing tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent warning that countries continuing trade with Russia could face steep tariffs—up to 100%—and possible secondary sanctions. Despite this, Indian authorities stated there are no plans to halt crude imports from Moscow.

While state-run oil companies such as Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (HPCL) have paused spot-market purchases of Russian crude due to narrowing discounts, private refiners like Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy remain active buyers. Nayara, partly owned by Russian oil giant Rosneft, has faced logistical challenges in recent days as some of its Russian oil tankers were delayed due to sanctions-related issues.

Russian crude currently makes up approximately 35% of India’s total oil imports, with an average of 1.75 million barrels per day arriving in the first half of 2025. This represents a modest increase from the same period last year, highlighting the continued economic appeal of discounted Russian barrels.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior Indian official stated, “Our crude sourcing is dictated by national interest, supply security, and commercial terms—not foreign threats.” The official added that India is in no position to entertain unilateral pressure, especially in critical sectors like energy.

The Ministry of External Affairs also reaffirmed India’s long-standing and stable relationship with Russia, emphasizing that such partnerships cannot be upended by international politics.

Despite the firm stance, Indian authorities have quietly advised oil refiners to begin exploring alternative sources—particularly from the Middle East and West Africa—as a contingency. These moves come as global oil prices inch upward due to increasing uncertainty, with Brent crude hovering around \$72 per barrel.

Analysts believe that while India is unlikely to make a dramatic policy reversal, it is hedging its bets in case sanctions begin to impact insurance, shipping, or payment mechanisms tied to Russian crude.

The U.S. has hinted at a broader strategy to impose secondary sanctions on countries continuing to trade in Russian oil, as part of efforts to tighten the noose around Moscow. India’s refusal to fall in line could set the stage for a diplomatic standoff, especially as Washington eyes stricter enforcement of its foreign policy agenda.

Meanwhile, energy security remains a top priority for India, the world’s third-largest oil importer, which relies on overseas supplies for nearly 85% of its needs.