Washington, 2 August (H.S.): US President Donald Trump noted that India is reportedly halting purchases of Russian oil, calling it a good step if verified. This statement follows Washington's recent decision to impose penalties on India for acquiring Russian crude and military equipment. Trump expressed uncertainty about the accuracy of the report but emphasized that ceasing Russian oil imports would be a positive action.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) responded , stating that India's energy purchases are determined by market dynamics and national interests, denying any specific knowledge of oil companies pausing Russian imports. Reports indicated that Indian state refiners had stopped buying Russian oil in the past week due to narrowing discounts and US warnings against such purchases.
Indian refiners, including Indian Oil Corp and Hindustan Petroleum Corp, typically buy Russian crude and were looking to Middle Eastern and West African markets for alternative supplies.
Trump and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had previously criticized India for continuing to import discounted Russian oil amid ongoing sanctions stemming from Russia's actions in Ukraine. Following this criticism, Trump announced additional tariffs on imported goods from India. Although Indian refiners have reportedly not sought Russian crude recently, there has been no immediate comment from those companies or the federal oil ministry.
Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy are among the largest Russian oil buyers in India, but state-run refiners account for over 60% of India's refining capacity. Trump's comments may signify increased scrutiny by the US regarding India’s energy and defense ties with Russia. The US administration views India’s oil purchases as a contentious issue and has previously urged a reduction in reliance on Russian resources.
Trump did not clarify if India's reported shift in oil policy would impact the imposed tariffs or future negotiations, stating, “We’ll see what happens.” The situation reflects the ongoing tension between the US and India regarding energy imports from Russia amid global geopolitical dynamics.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
