India to Continue Buying Russian Oil Despite Trump’s Threats, Officials Confirm

Indian officials have confirmed that the country will continue purchasing oil from Russia despite threats of severe penalties from U.S. President Donald Trump. Earlier claims by Trump suggesting that India would halt Russian oil imports—calling it a “good step”—were swiftly rebutted by New Delhi, with government sources stating such reports were unfounded.
According to authorities, India’s energy procurement strategy remains unchanged: decisions are driven by price, quality, logistics, existing contracts, and national interest. Officials emphasized that no new instructions have been issued to domestic oil companies to reduce or stop purchasing Russian crude, and longstanding contracts cannot simply be unwound overnight.
Recent market developments led some state-owned refiners to temporarily pause Russian oil purchases in July, after discounts narrowed. However, private refiners such as Nayara Energy and Reliance Industries are still buying Russian crude. India continues to source roughly 35% of its oil from Russia, making it the country’s top supplier, followed by Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

While the U.S. has imposed a 25% tariff on Indian goods and threatened further unspecified tariffs for continued energy and military ties with Russia, India has defended its position. The country underscores that it operates within international norms—including G7-EU price caps on Russian oil—and that its energy diplomacy is rooted in strategic autonomy and domestic energy needs.
Sources:
Reuters, The Guardian, Financial Times, Economic Times