New Delhi: Indian state run oil refiners are reviewing their crude purchase agreements with Russian suppliers after the United States imposed new sanctions on major Russian energy companies, according to a source familiar with the development.

The US government’s latest sanctions target Russia’s state oil giant Rosneft and privately held Lukoil, requiring global companies to wind down transactions with them by November 21. The move is part of Washington’s effort to tighten pressure on Moscow as it continues its war in Ukraine.

In response, Indian refiners including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation, and Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals have begun examining their contracts and shipment documents to ensure compliance with the sanctions.

“Refiners are checking whether the Russian crude cargoes scheduled for delivery after the deadline are linked directly to Rosneft or Lukoil,” the source said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Trade officials noted that most Indian refiners do not buy oil directly from sanctioned Russian producers, instead sourcing crude through intermediaries or traders. This could help them minimize disruptions to supply.

India has become one of the largest importers of Russian oil since Western nations imposed restrictions on Moscow following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Between January and September this year, India imported roughly 1.7 million barrels of Russian crude per day, mostly purchased by private refiners such as Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy.

The fresh US sanctions have added uncertainty to India’s energy market, where refiners are trying to balance affordable energy imports with growing international compliance pressures.

None of the state run oil companies have issued official statements so far on how the sanctions will affect future purchases.