India’s Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said the United States has not pressured New Delhi to reduce its imports of Russian crude oil, emphasizing that purchasing decisions depend primarily on commercial considerations and market prices.
Speaking at an industry event on October 27, 2026, Puri said Indian refiners evaluate different crude oil supplies according to their prices and availability. He explained that discounted Russian oil had become attractive after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Before the war, Russian crude accounted for only around 0.2 percent of India’s oil imports. However, purchases increased substantially as Western sanctions redirected Russian supplies towards Asian markets, allowing Indian refiners to obtain oil at competitive prices.
Recently, however, Indian refiners have reduced their reliance on Russian crude amid growing competition from China and improved commercial opportunities in the Middle East.
Shipping data indicated that imports of Middle Eastern oil increased in September, returning to levels recorded before the war in Ukraine. Gulf suppliers have also offered more competitive prices, making their crude increasingly attractive to Indian buyers.
Puri stressed that commercial interests ultimately determine purchasing decisions, suggesting that changes in India’s oil-import mix reflect evolving market conditions rather than direct American pressure.
India remains one of the world’s largest crude oil importers and relies heavily on overseas supplies to meet domestic energy demand. Its strategy of diversifying suppliers aims to maintain reliable supplies while managing costs for refiners and consumers.
The development comes amid continuing discussions between Washington and New Delhi over trade, energy security and their broader economic relationship.
India’s approach to Russian oil remains closely tied to international prices, shipping costs, supply availability and the economic consequences of potential restrictions.
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