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India has pushed back against growing US pressure over its purchases of Russian crude, saying its energy policy is driven by national interest and the need to protect the country's energy security.
The issue has intensified after the US House of Representatives passed legislation that could impose tariffs of up to 100% on countries continuing to purchase Russian energy. The measure is part of Washington's wider effort to put economic pressure on Russia over the war in Ukraine.
India has emerged as one of the largest buyers of Russian crude since 2022. Indian refiners increased purchases after Russian oil became available at discounted prices, helping them secure large volumes of crude for the domestic market.
According to figures cited by the BBC, Russian crude accounted for more than 30% of India's oil imports in the 2026 financial year, with purchases worth around $40bn.
New Delhi has defended the trade, arguing that India's energy requirements and the interests of its population must remain central to its decisions. Indian officials have also warned that coercive trade measures could have consequences for bilateral relations and the wider global economy.
For Washington, however, continued purchases of Russian oil are a concern because revenues from energy exports remain an important part of Russia's economy. The proposed tariffs are therefore intended to increase pressure not only on Moscow but also on countries that continue buying its energy.
The dispute places India in a complicated position. Russian crude provides an important source of oil for Indian refiners, while the United States remains a major economic and trading partner.
The final impact of the US legislation will depend on its implementation and any further decisions by Washington. For India, the issue highlights the challenge of balancing affordable energy supplies, relations with Russia and its broader economic relationship with the United States.
