India continues Russian oil imports: In a firm rebuttal to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks, sources confirmed that Indian oil refiners continue sourcing oil from Russian suppliers. Contrary to claims that India had stopped buying Russian crude, industry insiders clarified that India’s energy decisions are based on economic logic, not political noise. This strategic approach has been crucial in maintaining both domestic energy security and global oil market stability.
Trump’s Claim Sparks Clarification
Speaking to the media, Donald Trump had said,
“I understand that India is no longer going to be buying oil from Russia. That’s what I heard, I don’t know if that’s right or not.”
This speculative statement triggered swift clarification from Indian officials and energy experts. Sources told ANI that Trump’s claim is inaccurate and that India continues its oil imports from Russia based on factors like price, grade, logistics, and supply security.
Key Takeaways:
- Indian oil refiners continue importing Russian oil.
- Trump’s claim about India stopping Russian crude is incorrect.
- India complies with the G7 price cap and international regulations.
- Russian oil is not sanctioned; trade remains legitimate.
- India’s strategy has helped stabilize global oil prices.
Why India Still Buys Russian Oil
1. Price and Supply Security Drive Decisions
Indian oil refiners, guided by market-based dynamics, continue to buy Russian crude due to:
- Competitive pricing
- Flexibility in logistics
- Compatibility with refinery configurations
- Long-term supply commitments
India is the world’s third-largest energy consumer, importing 85% of its crude oil needs. In this context, Russian oil provides a vital and affordable source of energy.
2. Helping Maintain Global Oil Price Stability
Sources emphasized that India’s decision to absorb Russian crude helped prevent a global energy crisis. Had India not sourced discounted Russian oil — combined with OPEC’s production cuts of 5.86 million barrels per day — global oil prices could have skyrocketed past the March 2022 peak of $137 per barrel, potentially fueling worldwide inflation.
The Truth About Russian Oil Sanctions
Despite global tensions, Russian crude has never been formally sanctioned by the U.S. or the EU. Instead, a G7/EU price-cap mechanism was implemented to limit Russia’s revenues while keeping the oil flowing into global markets.
Indian refiners have strictly complied with:
- $60/barrel price cap recommended by the U.S.
- $47.6/barrel EU cap to be enforced from September 2025
India has also not imported sanctioned Iranian or Venezuelan crude, showing a consistent commitment to international norms.
India’s Global Energy Role: Responsible and Strategic
India’s approach is not just about cost — it’s about energy diplomacy and responsibility. Sources reiterated:
“India acted as a responsible global energy actor, ensuring markets remain liquid and prices stable. Our purchases are fully legitimate and aligned with international frameworks.”
India’s pragmatic oil policy has earned global recognition for:
- Keeping markets balanced
- Preventing extreme price volatility
- Respecting all international regulatory boundaries
Countering Misleading Reports
Earlier in July, a Reuters report claimed that Indian state refiners paused Russian oil purchases due to tariff threats from President Trump and reducing price margins. However, sources now clarify that this pause was temporary, not a policy shift.
Even after Trump’s recent tariff announcement — a 25% duty and additional penalty on Indian imports — India has not halted its Russian crude imports.
India continues to walk a fine line between national interest and international cooperation. In a volatile geopolitical climate, India’s stable and calculated oil sourcing strategy helps insulate both domestic consumers and global markets from chaos.
Trump’s comments may have stirred headlines, but India’s oil diplomacy is founded on facts, not fiction.