Following significant tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump over the purchase of oil from Russia, the demand from the South Asian country for Moscow’s crude has dropped. Taking advantage of the situation, Chinese refineries have placed new orders for Russian crude from ports that earlier supplied to New Delhi, according to reports. After Western countries halted Russian imports following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, China and India emerged as the top buyers of oil from Russia.CNN reported, citing analysts, that at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil have been secured by Chinese refineries, which will be delivered in October and November this year.<h2>Did tariffs result in drop in demand for Russian oil?</h2>Earlier in July, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil in a bid to pressure Moscow to end the war in Ukraine, which is in its fourth year. Earlier this month, Trump imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, on top of the initial 25 per cent duties, citing Russian oil and gas imposed. The move has led the country to cut down its purchases drastically, reported CNN.Muyu Xu, senior crude oil analyst at Kpler, which tracks commodities and shipping data, said that China’s state-owned and large private refiners had purchased about 13 cargoes of Russian crude that will be delivered in October. In addition, at least two such purchases have been made for the month of November.Reportedly, the 15 cargoes of oil, which usually range from 700,000 to 1 million barrels, are set to be supplied from Russia’s Arctic and Black Sea ports, which typically supply to India, Xu said.In a similar report, Reuters claimed, “Indian state refiners paused Russian oil purchases last month.” The report, citing a trade source, added that the cargoes were most likely at the beginning of the month.<h2>Trump tariff threats</h2>Meanwhile, India earlier said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia following Trump’s tariff threats, which it called unjust and unreasonable, and continues to buy for economic considerations.Reuters report added that Chinese refiners are also wary about the possibility of US sanctions. Trump on Friday said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.”

China has purchased at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil for deliveries in October and November from ports which typically supplied to India, which is currently facing a drop in demand amid Trump’s tariff threats, according to reports.

Following significant tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump over the purchase of oil from Russia, the demand from the South Asian country for Moscow’s crude has dropped. Taking advantage of the situation, Chinese refineries have placed new orders for Russian crude from ports that earlier supplied to New Delhi, according to reports. After Western countries halted Russian imports following Moscow’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, China and India emerged as the top buyers of oil from Russia. CNN reported, citing analysts, that at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil have been secured by Chinese refineries, which will be delivered in October and November this year. Did tariffs result in drop in demand for Russian oil? Earlier in July, US President Donald Trump threatened to impose secondary tariffs on countries purchasing Russian oil in a bid to pressure Moscow to end the war in Ukraine, which is in its fourth year. Earlier this month, Trump imposed additional 25 per cent tariffs on India, on top of the initial 25 per cent duties, citing Russian oil and gas imposed. The move has led the country to cut down its purchases drastically, reported CNN. Muyu Xu, senior crude oil analyst at Kpler, which tracks commodities and shipping data, said that China’s state-owned and large private refiners had purchased about 13 cargoes of Russian crude that will be delivered in October. In addition, at least two such purchases have been made for the month of November. Reportedly, the 15 cargoes of oil, which usually range from 700,000 to 1 million barrels, are set to be supplied from Russia’s Arctic and Black Sea ports, which typically supply to India, Xu said. In a similar report, Reuters claimed, “Indian state refiners paused Russian oil purchases last month.” The report, citing a trade source, added that the cargoes were most likely at the beginning of the month. Trump tariff threats Meanwhile, India earlier said that it has not halted its oil purchase from Russia following Trump’s tariff threats, which it called unjust and unreasonable, and continues to buy for economic considerations. Reuters report added that Chinese refiners are also wary about the possibility of US sanctions. Trump on Friday said that he did not immediately need to consider retaliatory tariffs on countries for buying Russian oil, adding that he might have to think about it “in two or three weeks.”

China has purchased at least 15 cargoes of Russian oil for deliveries in October and November from ports which typically supplied to India, which is currently facing a drop in demand amid Trump’s tariff threats, according to reports.

China ramping up Russian oil purchase amid Trump’s tariff threats? Reports claim drop in Indian demand

Russia and India will continue their energy trade despite pressure from the US, as Moscow has offered India a 5 per cent discount on oil, despite the sanctions on the latter from the West. The Deputy Trade Representative of Russia to India, Evgeniy Griva, said on Wednesday, “There will be a 5 per cent discount, subject to negotiation, on Russian crude oil purchases to India.” “Despite the political situation, approximately the same level of oil will be imported by India,” Griva said and added, “As for discounts, it’s a commercial secret. I think, because it’s usually just dialogue between businessmen and approximately usually 5%. It’s fluctuating, but usually it’s plus-minus 5%.”&nbsp;Griva was joined by Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin, who said, “We have trust in our ties,” although it is a “challenging situation” for New Delhi.&nbsp;“We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-russian-diplomat-said-on-india-s-relations-with-pakistan-and-china-amid-trump-s-tariff-war-1755676203361">What Russian diplomat said on India's relations with Pakistan and China amid Trump's tariff war</a><h2>US accused India of funding Ukraine war</h2>&nbsp;The US has accused India of funding the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil and imposed 50 per cent tariffs on New Delhi for buying oil from Russia.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt even said that Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on India was aimed at indirectly pressuring Russia to end its war in Ukraine.White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had said that India acts as a global clearinghouse for Russian oil, converting embargoed crude into high-value exports while giving Moscow the dollars it needs.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-you-mean-sudarshan-chakra-russian-diplomat-responds-on-being-about-india-s-iron-dome-1755673209969">'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome</a><h2>India condemned US tariffs</h2>&nbsp;India has refused to cower down and has called out the West's duplicity and double standards by presenting hard facts. India also condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”In its rebuttal, the Ministry of External Affairs said the US “actively encouraged” India’s oil imports from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. The MEA said India’s oil trade with Russia was a result of the global market situation, while the EU and US were engaging with Russia in trade that was “not even a vital national compulsion”.New Delhi also reiterated its priority of energy security and choice of trade between partners as a sovereign nation.Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that New Delhi would not back down in the face of economic pressure.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-pushes-back-against-us-sanctions-against-india-says-our-market-open-for-indian-goods-calls-brics-a-stabilisnig-force-1755670870025">Russia pushes back against US 'sanctions' against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising force</a><h2>Moscow lauds India for standing its ground on trade&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Moscow has lauded India for standing its ground on trade partners and asserting its freedom of choice against American bullying.Ambassador Babushkin said he doesn’t see American tariffs sabotaging the India-Russia oil trade.“Russia has a special mechanism to continue crude oil supplies to India. We are committed to sit with India to address these problems and remove them,” he said on Wednesday.Russian trade official Griva added that there was a “mechanism” to address shipping and insurance-related issues. He said Russia provided about 40% of India’s oil needs, which came at around 5% discount per barrel.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The US earlier threatened sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on countries that buy its oil if no moves are made to end the war in Ukraine. China and India are the top two buyers of Russian oil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen as India condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Russia and India will continue their energy trade despite pressure from the US, as Moscow has offered India a 5 per cent discount on oil, despite the sanctions on the latter from the West. The Deputy Trade Representative of Russia to India, Evgeniy Griva, said on Wednesday, “There will be a 5 per cent discount, subject to negotiation, on Russian crude oil purchases to India.” “Despite the political situation, approximately the same level of oil will be imported by India,” Griva said and added, “As for discounts, it’s a commercial secret. I think, because it’s usually just dialogue between businessmen and approximately usually 5%. It’s fluctuating, but usually it’s plus-minus 5%.” Griva was joined by Russian Deputy Chief of Mission Roman Babushkin, who said, “We have trust in our ties,” although it is a “challenging situation” for New Delhi. “We are confident that India-Russia energy cooperation will continue notwithstanding the external pressure,” he added. Also Read: What Russian diplomat said on India's relations with Pakistan and China amid Trump's tariff war US accused India of funding Ukraine war The US has accused India of funding the Ukraine war by purchasing Russian oil and imposed 50 per cent tariffs on New Delhi for buying oil from Russia. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt even said that Trump’s decision to impose steep tariffs on India was aimed at indirectly pressuring Russia to end its war in Ukraine. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro had said that India acts as a global clearinghouse for Russian oil, converting embargoed crude into high-value exports while giving Moscow the dollars it needs. Also Read: 'You mean Sudarshan Chakra?' Russian diplomat responds on being asked about India’s Iron Dome India condemned US tariffs India has refused to cower down and has called out the West's duplicity and double standards by presenting hard facts. India also condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” In its rebuttal, the Ministry of External Affairs said the US “actively encouraged” India’s oil imports from Russia because traditional supplies were diverted to Europe after the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict. The MEA said India’s oil trade with Russia was a result of the global market situation, while the EU and US were engaging with Russia in trade that was “not even a vital national compulsion”. New Delhi also reiterated its priority of energy security and choice of trade between partners as a sovereign nation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also said that New Delhi would not back down in the face of economic pressure. Also Read: Russia pushes back against US 'sanctions' against India, says our market open for Indian goods, calls BRICS a stabilising force Moscow lauds India for standing its ground on trade Moscow has lauded India for standing its ground on trade partners and asserting its freedom of choice against American bullying. Ambassador Babushkin said he doesn’t see American tariffs sabotaging the India-Russia oil trade. “Russia has a special mechanism to continue crude oil supplies to India. We are committed to sit with India to address these problems and remove them,” he said on Wednesday. Russian trade official Griva added that there was a “mechanism” to address shipping and insurance-related issues. He said Russia provided about 40% of India’s oil needs, which came at around 5% discount per barrel. https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-stands-firm-against-us-tariffs-sends-message-to-trump-emphasizes-on-self-reliance-1755260948029/embed The US earlier threatened sanctions on Moscow and secondary sanctions on countries that buy its oil if no moves are made to end the war in Ukraine. China and India are the top two buyers of Russian oil.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India would not compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers and fishermen as India condemned the US tariffs, calling them “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”

Russia offers India 5% discount on crude oil to help tide over Trump tariffs

Amid talks of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, India's oil purchase from Russia has again made headlines. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro alleged that India's 'financial support' is helping Russia in the war against Ukraine. Navarro, who is instrumental in imposing the reciprocal tariffs on countries in escalating Trump's trade war, criticised India for purchasing Russian energy and defence equipment. He also warned that the US will hit "Delhi where it hurts.”&nbsp;In an opinion piece for the Financial Times, Navarro termed India’s oil trade with Russia “opportunistic” and “corrosive” to global efforts being made to isolate the Russian economy amid war with Ukraine. He also said that India was using dollars earned from trade with America to buy Russian oil, blaming New Delhi for "high tariffs." He also blamed the Biden administration for looking the other way and said that Trump administration is "confronting" the "geopolitical madness." He also claimed that crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. “This two-pronged policy will hit India where it hurts — its access to US markets — even as it seeks to cut off the financial lifeline it has extended to Russia’s war effort,” Navarro said. “If India wants to be treated as a strategic partner of the US, it needs to start acting like one.” Navarro also accused India of “cosying up to both Russia and China.”&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-2025-pm-narendra-modi-s-big-message-to-us-amid-trump-s-tariff-trade-war-50-percent-tariff-1755228508072">'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed</a><h2>Trump's trade war and India's response&nbsp;</h2>In continuation of ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs of April 2, Trump issued an executive order on July 31 that imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations.&nbsp;In a statement published Aug 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said, "India’s imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs to the Indian consumer. They are a necessity compelled by global market situation." “However, it is revealing that the very nations criticising India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia. Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion,” it added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, in what seemed to be a response to Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he won't compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen of his country, even if he has to pay a price for it. He echoed the same sentiments in his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15. “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. Delivering a strong message, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community. &nbsp;

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has doubled down on his attack on India for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia. He has claimed that India's purchase of crude oil may be funding the war against Ukraine

Amid talks of ending the Russia-Ukraine war, India's oil purchase from Russia has again made headlines. White House trade adviser Peter Navarro alleged that India's 'financial support' is helping Russia in the war against Ukraine. Navarro, who is instrumental in imposing the reciprocal tariffs on countries in escalating Trump's trade war, criticised India for purchasing Russian energy and defence equipment. He also warned that the US will hit "Delhi where it hurts.” In an opinion piece for the Financial Times, Navarro termed India’s oil trade with Russia “opportunistic” and “corrosive” to global efforts being made to isolate the Russian economy amid war with Ukraine. He also said that India was using dollars earned from trade with America to buy Russian oil, blaming New Delhi for "high tariffs." He also blamed the Biden administration for looking the other way and said that Trump administration is "confronting" the "geopolitical madness." He also claimed that crude oil imports from Russia after 2022 was not for meeting domestic consumption and that Indian refiners for “profiteering” by purchasing Russian discounted oil and exporting the processed petroleum products to Europe, Africa and Asia. “This two-pronged policy will hit India where it hurts — its access to US markets — even as it seeks to cut off the financial lifeline it has extended to Russia’s war effort,” Navarro said. “If India wants to be treated as a strategic partner of the US, it needs to start acting like one.” Navarro also accused India of “cosying up to both Russia and China.” Read More | 'Modi standing like a wall...': PM's BOLD message to US on Independence Day amid Trump's tariff war https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-wang-yi-meet-important-that-de-escalation-on-border-continues-1755571468830/embed Trump's trade war and India's response In continuation of ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs of April 2, Trump issued an executive order on July 31 that imposed modified tariffs on its trading partners, citing an ongoing national emergency. The US had paused the April 2 tariffs, giving countries a window of 90 days to sign a trade deal with America. In the new tariffs, the Trump administration imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India. Trump then announced an additional tariff of 25 per cent on India for buying Russian oil and warned about doing the same with other nations. In a statement published Aug 4, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said, "India’s imports are meant to ensure predictable and affordable energy costs to the Indian consumer. They are a necessity compelled by global market situation." “However, it is revealing that the very nations criticising India are themselves indulging in trade with Russia. Unlike our case, such trade is not even a vital national compulsion,” it added. Meanwhile, in what seemed to be a response to Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he won't compromise the interests of farmers, dairy farmers and fishermen of his country, even if he has to pay a price for it. He echoed the same sentiments in his Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15. “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them,” he said. Delivering a strong message, he reaffirmed his government's commitment to protecting the interests of India's agricultural community.

White House trade adviser Peter Navarro has doubled down on his attack on India for purchasing Russian oil and has criticised New Delhi for cosying up to China and Russia. He has claimed that India's purchase of crude oil may be funding the war against Ukraine

India's oil purchase from Russia funding Ukraine war? Trump's aide makes sensational allegations

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 5) said that he does not know about his country's trade with Russia. His response came when he was asked about America's business with Russia, amid his continuous criticism of India's trade with Russia. Trump on Tuesday, threatened India, saying he would raise the tariff on the country “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to its purchase of Russian oil. On Monday, Trump had warned that he would raise the tariff on India “substantially”, saying that India was not only buying “massive amounts of Russian oil” but also selling it “on the open market for big profits”. However, in response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called Trump's comments ‘unjustified and unreasonable’ and stated that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, because such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. Trump had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India on July 30.&nbsp;On Tuesday's press briefing, Trump was asked by Indian news agency ANI: "India says that the US imports Russian uranium, fertilisers, while criticising their energy imports, what is your comment on this?" The US president dodged the question, stating that he is not aware of it. “I don't know anything about it. I will have to check, but I will get back to you on it.” Trump also said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time. But we will see what happens...", Trump added.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Reporter: India says US imports Russian Uranium, chemicals and fertilisers while criticising India’s energy imports from Russia Donald Trump: I don&#39;t know anything about that. I have to check. Will get back to you (Source: US Network Pool via Reuters)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>… <a href="https://t.co/Cznym3hgA9">pic.twitter.com/Cznym3hgA9</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1952928570612806102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>India's response to Trump's continuous threats</h2>New Delhi, in its response to the White House, argued that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, as such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. “Like any major economy, India will take all necessary measures to safeguard its national interests and economic security.” “We make decisions based on the price at which oil is available in the international market, and depending on the global situation at that time,” Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson of the MEA, told journalists in New Delhi on Friday. The MEA statement also highlighted that the US and Europe import several items from Russia while they continue to demand the suspension of India-Russia trade. “Where the United States is concerned, it continues to import from Russia uranium hexafluoride for its nuclear industry, palladium for its EV industry, fertilisers as well as chemicals…Europe-Russia trade includes not just energy, but also fertilisers, mining products, chemicals, iron and steel and machinery and transport equipment.,” the statement said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement by Official Spokesperson⬇️ 🔗 <a href="https://t.co/O2hJTOZBby">https://t.co/O2hJTOZBby</a> <a href="https://t.co/RTQ2beJC0W">pic.twitter.com/RTQ2beJC0W</a>&mdash; Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1952412858567844061?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) stated that he had no knowledge that the United States imports Russian chemicals and fertilisers. His statement came when he was asked about his country's business with Russia as he continues his attack on India over Russian trade 

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 5) said that he does not know about his country's trade with Russia. His response came when he was asked about America's business with Russia, amid his continuous criticism of India's trade with Russia. Trump on Tuesday, threatened India, saying he would raise the tariff on the country “very substantially over the next 24 hours” due to its purchase of Russian oil. On Monday, Trump had warned that he would raise the tariff on India “substantially”, saying that India was not only buying “massive amounts of Russian oil” but also selling it “on the open market for big profits”. However, in response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called Trump's comments ‘unjustified and unreasonable’ and stated that it was the US that had encouraged India to buy oil from Russia after the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, because such purchases helped stabilise global energy markets. Trump had imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India on July 30. On Tuesday's press briefing, Trump was asked by Indian news agency ANI: "India says that the US imports Russian uranium, fertilisers, while criticising their energy imports, what is your comment on this?" The US president dodged the question, stating that he is not aware of it. “I don't know anything about it. I will have to check, but I will get back to you on it.” Trump also said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time. But we will see what happens...", Trump added.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (local time) stated that he had no knowledge that the United States imports Russian chemicals and fertilisers. His statement came when he was asked about his country's business with Russia as he continues his attack on India over Russian trade&nbsp;

I don't...: Trump's SHOCKING response to India's claim about US-Russia uranium and fertilizer trade

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 6) clarified his ‘penalty’ announcement on countries trading with Russia, stating that he has not yet specified a percentage. He had previously said that countries trading with Russia will face additional tariffs as a ‘penalty’ for engaging with Moscow, despite US sanctions. The &nbsp;US president made the remarks during a press conference at the White House, originally called to discuss the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The POTUS was asked about imposing a 100% tariff on countries buying Russian energy.&nbsp;Trump responded, "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time... We have a meeting with Russia tomorrow. We're going to see what happens..." He was also asked about America's trade with Russia amid his threat to India for buying Russian oil. The POTUS seemed to dodge the question and said that he is not aware of his country's imports from Russia. Trump has been issuing multiple warnings to India since last week over its trade with Moscow, adding that he would impose very substantial tariff "over the next 24 hours.” Last week, he had also called India and Russia's economy ‘dead.’&nbsp;Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff is in Moscow days before the US president’s deadline on Friday for Russia to make progress on ending the war in Ukraine. When asked what message Witkoff would take to Russia and what Vladimir Putin could do to avoid new sanctions, the US president answered: “Yeah, get a deal where people stop getting killed.” US president's statement hints that he would take the decision after Witkoff's meeting with Russian leaders.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | On being asked about imposing 100% tariffs on all countries that purchase Russian energy, including China, US President Donald Trump says, &quot;I never said a percentage, but we&#39;ll be doing quite a bit of that. We&#39;ll see what happens over the next fairly short period of… <a href="https://t.co/qHOVywQ9TW">pic.twitter.com/qHOVywQ9TW</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1952846659333054533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US President Donald Trump said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. He hinted that his decision would come after the meeting between Steve Witkoff and Russian leaders 

United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Aug 6) clarified his ‘penalty’ announcement on countries trading with Russia, stating that he has not yet specified a percentage. He had previously said that countries trading with Russia will face additional tariffs as a ‘penalty’ for engaging with Moscow, despite US sanctions. The US president made the remarks during a press conference at the White House, originally called to discuss the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The POTUS was asked about imposing a 100% tariff on countries buying Russian energy. Trump responded, "I never said a percentage, but we'll be doing quite a bit of that. We'll see what happens over the next fairly short period of time... We have a meeting with Russia tomorrow. We're going to see what happens..." He was also asked about America's trade with Russia amid his threat to India for buying Russian oil. The POTUS seemed to dodge the question and said that he is not aware of his country's imports from Russia. Trump has been issuing multiple warnings to India since last week over its trade with Moscow, adding that he would impose very substantial tariff "over the next 24 hours.” Last week, he had also called India and Russia's economy ‘dead.’ Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff is in Moscow days before the US president’s deadline on Friday for Russia to make progress on ending the war in Ukraine. When asked what message Witkoff would take to Russia and what Vladimir Putin could do to avoid new sanctions, the US president answered: “Yeah, get a deal where people stop getting killed.” US president's statement hints that he would take the decision after Witkoff's meeting with Russian leaders.

US President Donald Trump said that he never specified the exact rate of tariffs he would impose on countries doing business with Russia. He hinted that his decision would come after the meeting between Steve Witkoff and Russian leaders&nbsp;

Will US impose 100% tariffs on countries purchasing Russian energy? Trump REVEALS his plans amid Witkoff's Moscow visit

US President Donald Trump's top aide Stephen Miller on Sunday (Aug 3) accused India of "financing" Russia's war in Ukraine by the nation's continued purchase of oil from Moscow. This comes as the United States continues to escalate pressure on New Delhi to stop buying Russian oil. Miller, the deputy chief of staff at the White House and one of Trump's most influential aides, during an interview, said that the US president has "very clearly" told India that it was "not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia".&nbsp;<h2>"People will be shocked..."</h2>Appearing on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures", Miller voiced what was some of the strongest criticism yet by the Trump administration about India, one of America's major partners in the Indo-Pacific. He said that what Trump "said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia."He claimed that “People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil... That's an astonishing fact.” However, tempering his criticism of India, Miller noted that Donald Trump's relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "tremendous".His statement comes as the US continues to put pressure on India to cease oil imports from Russia. On Friday, a US tariff of 25 per cent on Indian products also went into effect. Trump has further threatened India and other nations that buy oil from Russia with a 100 per cent tariff unless Moscow reaches a major peace deal with Ukraine.<h2>India to keep buying oil from Russia</h2>Meanwhile, on Saturday (Aug 2), sources in the Indian government told Reuters that New Delhi will keep purchasing oil from Moscow despite US threats. Calling the imports "long-term oil contracts", one unnamed source said that it was "not so simple to just stop buying overnight." Another Indian government official who also chose to stay anonymous noted that India's purchase of Russian crude has helped avoid a global surge in oil prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Stephen Miller, the deputy chief of staff at the White House and one of Trump's most influential aides, during an interview, said that the US president has "very clearly" told India that it was "not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia". 

US President Donald Trump's top aide Stephen Miller on Sunday (Aug 3) accused India of "financing" Russia's war in Ukraine by the nation's continued purchase of oil from Moscow. This comes as the United States continues to escalate pressure on New Delhi to stop buying Russian oil. Miller, the deputy chief of staff at the White House and one of Trump's most influential aides, during an interview, said that the US president has "very clearly" told India that it was "not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia". "People will be shocked..." Appearing on Fox News' "Sunday Morning Futures", Miller voiced what was some of the strongest criticism yet by the Trump administration about India, one of America's major partners in the Indo-Pacific. He said that what Trump "said very clearly is that it is not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia." He claimed that “People will be shocked to learn that India is basically tied with China in purchasing Russian oil... That's an astonishing fact.” However, tempering his criticism of India, Miller noted that Donald Trump's relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was "tremendous". His statement comes as the US continues to put pressure on India to cease oil imports from Russia. On Friday, a US tariff of 25 per cent on Indian products also went into effect. Trump has further threatened India and other nations that buy oil from Russia with a 100 per cent tariff unless Moscow reaches a major peace deal with Ukraine. India to keep buying oil from Russia Meanwhile, on Saturday (Aug 2), sources in the Indian government told Reuters that New Delhi will keep purchasing oil from Moscow despite US threats. Calling the imports "long-term oil contracts", one unnamed source said that it was "not so simple to just stop buying overnight." Another Indian government official who also chose to stay anonymous noted that India's purchase of Russian crude has helped avoid a global surge in oil prices.

Stephen Miller, the deputy chief of staff at the White House and one of Trump's most influential aides, during an interview, said that the US president has "very clearly" told India that it was "not acceptable for India to continue financing this war by purchasing the oil from Russia".&nbsp;

'People will be shocked...': Trump top aide Stephen Miller accuses India of 'financing' Russia's war in Ukraine via oil purchases

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 1) claimed to have heard that India may stop buying oil from Russia, calling it "a good step" if true. His statement comes just days after he imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India, saying the US has a massive trade deficit with the country. He also said that India will be paying additional penalties due to its trade relations with Russia. However, in New Delhi, the government pushed back, saying it was its sovereign right to take energy decisions based on national interest and market dynamics.<h2>What did Trump say about India?</h2>The US president, when asked if he planned to speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and if he had a penalty figure in mind, 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. That is a good step. We will see what happens..."When asked if he was open to negotiating with India, Trump said, "We're talking to them now. We'll see what happens. Again, India was the highest or just about the highest tariff nation in the world, one of the highest, 100 points, 150 points or percentages. So India was one of the highest in the world. They had 175 per cent and higher than that."However, he emphasised US-India ties and his friendship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi whom he referred to as a "good friend". "As you know, Prime Minister Modi is a friend of mine, but they don't do very much business in terms of business with us. They sell a lot to us, but we don't buy from them. You know why? Because the tariff is so high. They have one of the highest tariffs in the world. Now they're willing to cut it very substantially. But we'll see what happens. We're talking to India now," he said.<h2>What is India's stand on the US tariff matter?</h2>Earlier on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs addressed media reports that some Indian oil firms had paused Russian imports. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said he was not aware of any such developments. "You are aware of our broad approach to energy sourcing requirements, that we look at what is available in the market and the prevailing global situation. We are not aware of any specifics," Jaiswal said. The comments come amid growing criticism from Washington over India's continued imports of discounted Russian oil, despite Western sanctions related to the Ukraine war. Both Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have publicly voiced concern in recent weeks.

Trump, when asked if he planned to speak with PM Narendra Modi and if he had a penalty figure in mind, 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. That is a good step. We will see what happens..."

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 1) claimed to have heard that India may stop buying oil from Russia, calling it "a good step" if true. His statement comes just days after he imposed a 25 per cent tariff on India, saying the US has a massive trade deficit with the country. He also said that India will be paying additional penalties due to its trade relations with Russia. However, in New Delhi, the government pushed back, saying it was its sovereign right to take energy decisions based on national interest and market dynamics. What did Trump say about India? The US president, when asked if he planned to speak with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and if he had a penalty figure in mind, 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. That is a good step. We will see what happens..." When asked if he was open to negotiating with India, Trump said, "We're talking to them now. We'll see what happens. Again, India was the highest or just about the highest tariff nation in the world, one of the highest, 100 points, 150 points or percentages. So India was one of the highest in the world. They had 175 per cent and higher than that." However, he emphasised US-India ties and his friendship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi whom he referred to as a "good friend". "As you know, Prime Minister Modi is a friend of mine, but they don't do very much business in terms of business with us. They sell a lot to us, but we don't buy from them. You know why? Because the tariff is so high. They have one of the highest tariffs in the world. Now they're willing to cut it very substantially. But we'll see what happens. We're talking to India now," he said. What is India's stand on the US tariff matter? Earlier on Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs addressed media reports that some Indian oil firms had paused Russian imports. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said he was not aware of any such developments. "You are aware of our broad approach to energy sourcing requirements, that we look at what is available in the market and the prevailing global situation. We are not aware of any specifics," Jaiswal said. The comments come amid growing criticism from Washington over India's continued imports of discounted Russian oil, despite Western sanctions related to the Ukraine war. Both Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have publicly voiced concern in recent weeks.

Trump, when asked if he planned to speak with PM Narendra Modi and if he had a penalty figure in mind, 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. That is a good step. We will see what happens..."

Trump calls reports of India halting Russian oil purchase 'good step' calls PM Modi a 'good friend'

India’s ongoing purchase of discounted Russian oil is causing growing tension in its relationship with the United States, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking to Fox Radio on Thursday, Rubio said India’s actions were “most certainly a point of irritation” for Washington. “Look, global trade – India is an ally. It’s a strategic partner. Like anything in foreign policy, you’re not going to align 100% of the time on everything,” Rubio said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-slams-russia-s-war-in-ukraine-says-sanctions-are-coming-but-doubts-they-ll-affect-putin-1754002826994">'I think it’s disgusting': Trump slams Russia’s war in Ukraine, says sanctions are coming but doubts they’ll affect Putin</a>He recognised India’s huge energy needs, adding, “India has huge energy needs and that includes the ability to buy oil and coal and gas and things that it needs to power its economy like every country does, and it buys it from Russia, because Russian oil is sanctioned and cheap and, meaning they have to, in many cases, they’re selling it under the global price because of the sanctions.” Rubio admitted that while the oil trade is a major sticking point, the two countries still share “many other points of cooperation”."And that, unfortunately, is helping to sustain the Russian war effort. So it is most certainly a point of irritation in our relationship with India – not the only point of irritation. We also have many other points of cooperation with them. But I think what you’re seeing the President express is the very clear frustration that with so many other oil vendors available, India continues to buy so much from Russia, which in essence is helping to fund the&nbsp;war&nbsp;effort," Rubio added.<h2>Trump warns of steep tariffs, criticises India-Russia ties</h2>President Donald Trump added to the pressure on Wednesday by announcing a 25% tariff on Indian imports, set to take effect on Friday. He said the United States was still in talks with New Delhi, but hinted that negotiations were hanging by a thread. “They have one of the highest tariffs in the world now, they’re willing to cut it very substantially,” Trump told reporters. “We’re talking to India now, we’ll see what happens… You’ll know by the end of this week,” he added.<h2>‘They can take their dead economies down together’</h2>Trump also criticised India’s continued trade with Russia and its participation in the BRICS alliance. In a post on Truth Social, he said,“I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care. We have done very little business with India, their tariffs are too high, among the highest in the world. Likewise, Russia and the USA do almost no business together.” Trump also accused India of maintaining “obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers”, which he claimed were part of the reason for the penalty.<h2>BRICS ‘hostile’ to the US, says Trump</h2>When asked to clarify the reason for the penalty, Trump said it was linked not only to trade issues but also India’s deeper involvement with the BRICS bloc of nations. He described BRICS as “hostile to the US”. If imposed, the 25% tariff would single out India more harshly than other major US trading partners. It also risks undoing months of trade discussions and could strain the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi, a relationship often seen as critical to countering China’s growing influence.

India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil is straining US relations, says Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling it a “point of irritation” despite ongoing strategic cooperation and shared interests.

India’s ongoing purchase of discounted Russian oil is causing growing tension in its relationship with the United States, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking to Fox Radio on Thursday, Rubio said India’s actions were “most certainly a point of irritation” for Washington. “Look, global trade – India is an ally. It’s a strategic partner. Like anything in foreign policy, you’re not going to align 100% of the time on everything,” Rubio said. Also read: 'I think it’s disgusting': Trump slams Russia’s war in Ukraine, says sanctions are coming but doubts they’ll affect Putin He recognised India’s huge energy needs, adding, “India has huge energy needs and that includes the ability to buy oil and coal and gas and things that it needs to power its economy like every country does, and it buys it from Russia, because Russian oil is sanctioned and cheap and, meaning they have to, in many cases, they’re selling it under the global price because of the sanctions.” Rubio admitted that while the oil trade is a major sticking point, the two countries still share “many other points of cooperation”. "And that, unfortunately, is helping to sustain the Russian war effort. So it is most certainly a point of irritation in our relationship with India – not the only point of irritation. We also have many other points of cooperation with them. But I think what you’re seeing the President express is the very clear frustration that with so many other oil vendors available, India continues to buy so much from Russia, which in essence is helping to fund the war effort," Rubio added. Trump warns of steep tariffs, criticises India-Russia ties President Donald Trump added to the pressure on Wednesday by announcing a 25% tariff on Indian imports, set to take effect on Friday. He said the United States was still in talks with New Delhi, but hinted that negotiations were hanging by a thread. “They have one of the highest tariffs in the world now, they’re willing to cut it very substantially,” Trump told reporters. “We’re talking to India now, we’ll see what happens… You’ll know by the end of this week,” he added. ‘They can take their dead economies down together’ Trump also criticised India’s continued trade with Russia and its participation in the BRICS alliance. In a post on Truth Social, he said, “I don’t care what India does with Russia. They can take their dead economies down together, for all I care. We have done very little business with India, their tariffs are too high, among the highest in the world. Likewise, Russia and the USA do almost no business together.” Trump also accused India of maintaining “obnoxious non-monetary trade barriers”, which he claimed were part of the reason for the penalty. BRICS ‘hostile’ to the US, says Trump When asked to clarify the reason for the penalty, Trump said it was linked not only to trade issues but also India’s deeper involvement with the BRICS bloc of nations. He described BRICS as “hostile to the US”. If imposed, the 25% tariff would single out India more harshly than other major US trading partners. It also risks undoing months of trade discussions and could strain the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi, a relationship often seen as critical to countering China’s growing influence.

India’s continued purchase of discounted Russian oil is straining US relations, says Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling it a “point of irritation” despite ongoing strategic cooperation and shared interests.

'Point of irritation': US accuses India of helping fund 'Russian war effort'

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has warned against “double standards” while rebuffing the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) chief Mark Rutte’s threat of secondary sanctions on India for for continuing its trade relationship with Russia. “We have seen reports on the subject and are closely following the developments. Let me reiterate that securing the energy needs of our people is understandably an overriding priority for us,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the weekly media briefing in Delhi on Thursday.&nbsp;Warning against “double standards”, Jaiswal further said, “In this endeavour, we are guided by what is available in the markets and also by prevailing global circumstances. We would particularly caution against any double standards on the matter.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi | On Nato chief Mark Rutte&#39;s comment that countries buying Russian oil could face secondary sanctions, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal says, &quot;We have seen reports on the subject and are closely following the developments. Let me reiterate that securing the energy… <a href="https://t.co/SdhmWRQYLL">pic.twitter.com/SdhmWRQYLL</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1945796607280124263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The external affairs ministry made the stern remarks after Nato chief Mark Rutte urged India, China, and Brazil to reconsider their economic ties with Moscow or face “100 per cent secondary sanctions” if Russia does not commit to peace talks.&nbsp;Rutte was addressing a press conference in Washington along with US Senators Thom Tillis and Jeanne Shaheen when he echoed the position taken by US President Donald Trump, who earlier this week threatened severe tariffs on countries continuing trade with Russia.&nbsp;&nbsp;“My encouragement to these three countries, particularly, is that if you live now in Beijing or in Delhi, or you are the President of Brazil, you might want to take a look at this because this might hit you very hard,” Rutte had said.He further appealed to these nations to pressure Russia into talks. “Please make the phone call to Vladimir Putin and tell him that he has to get serious about peace talks, because otherwise this will slam back on Brazil, on India and on China in a massive way,” he warned.&nbsp;&nbsp;The statement followed Trump’s announcement on supplying additional military aid, including air defence systems, missiles, and ammunition, largely funded by European allies, to Ukraine.&nbsp;Trump also set a 50-day deadline for Russia to enter serious peace negotiations or face full secondary sanctions after days of speculation about his promised “surprise” on Russia and Ukraine following his harsh remarks about Vladimir Putin’s “bullshit” last week.

US President Donald Trump set a 50-day deadline for Russia to start peace negotiations or face full secondary sanctions after his harsh remarks about Vladimir Putin’s “bullshit” and speculation over his promise of “surprise” on Russia and Ukraine.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has warned against “double standards” while rebuffing the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) chief Mark Rutte’s threat of secondary sanctions on India for for continuing its trade relationship with Russia. “We have seen reports on the subject and are closely following the developments. Let me reiterate that securing the energy needs of our people is understandably an overriding priority for us,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the weekly media briefing in Delhi on Thursday. Warning against “double standards”, Jaiswal further said, “In this endeavour, we are guided by what is available in the markets and also by prevailing global circumstances. We would particularly caution against any double standards on the matter.”

US President Donald Trump set a 50-day deadline for Russia to start peace negotiations or face full secondary sanctions after his harsh remarks about Vladimir Putin’s “bullshit” and speculation over his promise of “surprise” on Russia and Ukraine.

India slams Nato chief’s threat of sanctions over trade with Russia; warns against ‘double standards’

India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged to an 11-month high in June, as refiners hurried to bolster inventories against the backdrop of Israel–Iran tensions that have rattled global markets, according to vessel-tracking data cited by the Press Trust of India (PTI).&nbsp;Data from global commodity analytics firm Kpler show India imported 2.08 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude in June, the highest monthly level since July 2024. “While India’s global imports of crude oil dropped by 6 per cent in June, Russian volumes saw an 8 per cent month-on-month rise to their highest levels since July 2024,” said the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), as quoted by PTI. CREA added that “more than half of these imports from Russia were made by three refineries in India, which also export refined products to G7+ countries.”<h2>Russia cements its role as India’s top oil supplier</h2>India has shifted decisively toward Russian barrels over the past three years. Once a marginal supplier, Moscow became India’s biggest crude source after offering steep discounts when Western buyers shunned its oil following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. As of June 2025, Russia accounts for around 40 per cent of India’s total crude imports, according to PTI.&nbsp;India, which relies on imports for over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, has traditionally sourced most of its supplies from the Middle East. But with discounted Russian oil, refiners have realigned their strategy despite geopolitical criticism from the West. Industry analysts say the discounts and flexible payment terms have made Russian grades irresistible, even as New Delhi insists on a strategy of diversifying suppliers to strengthen energy security.<h2>Competition from West Asian suppliers eases</h2>While Russian imports surged in June, India’s other major suppliers saw declines or only modest growth. According to Kpler data reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), Iraq—India’s second-largest crude supplier, shipped 893,000 barrels per day (bpd) in June, marking a 17.2 per cent drop from May. Saudi Arabia’s deliveries held steady at around 581,000 bpd, while the United Arab Emirates boosted its volumes by 6.5 per cent to 490,000 bpd.&nbsp;As a share of India’s total oil imports in June, Iraq accounted for 18.5 per cent, Saudi Arabia for 12.1 per cent, the UAE for 10.2 per cent, and the United States maintained its fifth-place position with 303,000 bpd, or 6.3 per cent of the market, the data showed.<h2>India and China dominate Russian crude buying</h2>Analysts say India and China remain central to Moscow’s crude export strategy, with their purchases dwarfing those of other regions. As per analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) cited by PTI, China bought 47 per cent of Russia’s crude exports in June, while India purchased 38 per cent.&nbsp;The European Union and Turkiye followed with about 6 per cent each. “India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels in June, importing fossil fuels worth €4.5 billion, with crude oil accounting for 80 per cent (€3.6 billion) of these imports,” CREA said, according to PTI.<h2>US and Brazil flows rise as India diversifies</h2>Even as Russia retained its dominant position in India’s oil mix, imports from the United States and Brazil have been climbing sharply, highlighting New Delhi’s ongoing diversification strategy. According to S&amp;P Global Commodity Insights, US crude inflows to India during January–June 2025 jumped more than 50 per cent from the same period in 2024.&nbsp;India imported an average of 271,000 bpd from the US in the first half of 2025, compared with 180,000 bpd a year earlier. Brazilian shipments posted even steeper growth, with crude inflows rising 80 per cent year-over-year to 73,000 bpd from 41,000 bpd in the first half of 2024. According to S&amp;P data cited by PTI, Russia retained its top-supplier crown in the first half of 2025 with shipments averaging 1.67 million bpd, up slightly from 1.66 million bpd in the same period last year.<h2>Geopolitical backdrop: War worries and supply security</h2>Analysts attribute the spike in India’s Russian oil imports in June partly to precautionary stockpiling amid fears of wider conflict in West Asia following hostilities between Israel and Iran earlier this year. Indian refiners, keen to ensure robust inventories, have moved to secure supplies in case war disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows. &nbsp;As India navigates this tense geopolitical environment, its strategy appears to balance opportunistic buying of discounted Russian barrels with efforts to expand ties with non-OPEC suppliers such as the US and Brazil. Industry officials suggest that while Russia’s discounts have been attractive, India’s long-term policy is to avoid over-reliance on any single source, even one offering significant savings.

India boosts Russian oil imports to 2.08 million bpd in June amid Israel and Iran tensions, while expanding crude ties with the US and Brazil for supply security.

India’s crude oil imports from Russia surged to an 11-month high in June, as refiners hurried to bolster inventories against the backdrop of Israel–Iran tensions that have rattled global markets, according to vessel-tracking data cited by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Data from global commodity analytics firm Kpler show India imported 2.08 million barrels per day (bpd) of Russian crude in June, the highest monthly level since July 2024. “While India’s global imports of crude oil dropped by 6 per cent in June, Russian volumes saw an 8 per cent month-on-month rise to their highest levels since July 2024,” said the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), as quoted by PTI. CREA added that “more than half of these imports from Russia were made by three refineries in India, which also export refined products to G7+ countries.” Russia cements its role as India’s top oil supplier India has shifted decisively toward Russian barrels over the past three years. Once a marginal supplier, Moscow became India’s biggest crude source after offering steep discounts when Western buyers shunned its oil following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. As of June 2025, Russia accounts for around 40 per cent of India’s total crude imports, according to PTI. India, which relies on imports for over 85 per cent of its crude oil needs, has traditionally sourced most of its supplies from the Middle East. But with discounted Russian oil, refiners have realigned their strategy despite geopolitical criticism from the West. Industry analysts say the discounts and flexible payment terms have made Russian grades irresistible, even as New Delhi insists on a strategy of diversifying suppliers to strengthen energy security. Competition from West Asian suppliers eases While Russian imports surged in June, India’s other major suppliers saw declines or only modest growth. According to Kpler data reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), Iraq—India’s second-largest crude supplier, shipped 893,000 barrels per day (bpd) in June, marking a 17.2 per cent drop from May. Saudi Arabia’s deliveries held steady at around 581,000 bpd, while the United Arab Emirates boosted its volumes by 6.5 per cent to 490,000 bpd. As a share of India’s total oil imports in June, Iraq accounted for 18.5 per cent, Saudi Arabia for 12.1 per cent, the UAE for 10.2 per cent, and the United States maintained its fifth-place position with 303,000 bpd, or 6.3 per cent of the market, the data showed. India and China dominate Russian crude buying Analysts say India and China remain central to Moscow’s crude export strategy, with their purchases dwarfing those of other regions. As per analysis from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) cited by PTI, China bought 47 per cent of Russia’s crude exports in June, while India purchased 38 per cent. The European Union and Turkiye followed with about 6 per cent each. “India remained the second-largest purchaser of Russian fossil fuels in June, importing fossil fuels worth €4.5 billion, with crude oil accounting for 80 per cent (€3.6 billion) of these imports,” CREA said, according to PTI. US and Brazil flows rise as India diversifies Even as Russia retained its dominant position in India’s oil mix, imports from the United States and Brazil have been climbing sharply, highlighting New Delhi’s ongoing diversification strategy. According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, US crude inflows to India during January–June 2025 jumped more than 50 per cent from the same period in 2024. India imported an average of 271,000 bpd from the US in the first half of 2025, compared with 180,000 bpd a year earlier. Brazilian shipments posted even steeper growth, with crude inflows rising 80 per cent year-over-year to 73,000 bpd from 41,000 bpd in the first half of 2024. According to S&P data cited by PTI, Russia retained its top-supplier crown in the first half of 2025 with shipments averaging 1.67 million bpd, up slightly from 1.66 million bpd in the same period last year. Geopolitical backdrop: War worries and supply security Analysts attribute the spike in India’s Russian oil imports in June partly to precautionary stockpiling amid fears of wider conflict in West Asia following hostilities between Israel and Iran earlier this year. Indian refiners, keen to ensure robust inventories, have moved to secure supplies in case war disrupts shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy flows. As India navigates this tense geopolitical environment, its strategy appears to balance opportunistic buying of discounted Russian barrels with efforts to expand ties with non-OPEC suppliers such as the US and Brazil. Industry officials suggest that while Russia’s discounts have been attractive, India’s long-term policy is to avoid over-reliance on any single source, even one offering significant savings.

India’s crude oil imports from Russia hit an 11-month high in June 2025 amid West Asia tensions, as refiners stockpiled discounted barrels while diversifying with US and Brazilian supplies.

India’s Russian oil imports surge to 11-month high in June on war supply fears