India Rejects US Pressure on Russian Oil Deal, Energy Independence
India has issued a strong message regarding its oil imports from Russia, making it clear that the country will not seek permission from any foreign nation to secure energy supplies for its people. As global geopolitical tensions escalate and concerns over oil supply disruptions intensify, India has reaffirmed its commitment to making independent decisions that safeguard its national interests.
Energy Security Becomes a Strategic Priority
Energy supply has become a key pillar of national sovereignty in today’s global political environment. The Indian government has responded firmly to reports suggesting that the United States has allowed countries to import Russian oil only for a limited period.
Officials emphasized that India’s energy policies are determined by its own national requirements. With a population of over 1.4 billion people, ensuring an uninterrupted fuel supply remains a critical priority for the country.
India currently imports over 85 percent of its crude oil requirements, making stable and affordable supply chains essential for economic stability and public welfare.
Rising Global Tensions and Oil Supply Concerns
The ongoing tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States have raised concerns about potential disruptions in global oil supply. One of the major fears is the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes.
Any disruption in this region could lead to global fuel shortages and price spikes. In such circumstances, countries like India must secure alternative supply sources to ensure uninterrupted energy availability.
This situation has intensified discussions about India’s growing oil imports from Russia.
Russia Emerges as India’s Largest Oil Supplier
India’s oil import strategy has changed dramatically since 2022. Before the Ukraine conflict, Russia accounted for only a very small share of India’s crude oil imports.
However, recent data shows a major shift.
Russia’s share in India’s crude imports has increased from 20% to nearly 30%.
In February 2026, India imported around 1.04 million barrels of Russian oil per day.
Russia has now become India’s largest crude oil supplier.
These numbers highlight India’s strategy of purchasing oil at competitive prices while strengthening energy security.
Adequate Fuel Reserves in India
Despite global uncertainties, government officials have reassured that India currently holds sufficient stocks of crude oil, petroleum products, and LPG.
Authorities also stated that contingency plans are in place if disruptions occur in major oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz. Alternative supply channels are ready to be activated if needed.
According to government sources, the country currently has adequate energy resources to manage potential disruptions.
Refineries Operating Normally
The government has also dismissed rumors that some refineries, including Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL), are shutting down operations.
Officials confirmed that MRPL is operating normally and has sufficient crude oil reserves.
Additionally, refineries across the country have been instructed to increase LPG production to meet domestic demand. The government has decided to prioritize internal consumption rather than exporting petrochemical products in the current situation.
This approach is aimed at preventing any shortages in the domestic market.
Strategic Autonomy in Energy Policy
India’s stance reflects its broader strategy of maintaining strategic autonomy in energy decisions. Since the beginning of the Ukraine conflict, India has continued to import Russian oil despite international pressure.
Lower-cost crude imports help reduce:
Transportation costs
Manufacturing expenses
Inflationary pressures on households
Experts believe that while India continues diplomatic discussions with various countries, its energy policies will remain focused on national interests and economic stability.
For a rapidly growing economy like India, affordable and reliable energy supplies remain essential for sustaining development and protecting the interests of its citizens.
FAQs
Why is India buying oil from Russia?
India purchases Russian oil because it is available at competitive prices, helping ensure an affordable fuel supply and energy security for the country.
How much oil does India import from Russia?
As of February 2026, India imports around 1.04 million barrels of crude oil per day from Russia, making it the largest supplier to India.
Does India need US permission to buy Russian oil?
India has clarified that its energy decisions are based on national interests and do not require approval from any other country.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, through which a large portion of global crude oil shipments pass.
Are Indian refineries shutting down?
No. The government confirmed that refineries like MRPL are fully operational and have sufficient crude oil supplies.
Conclusion
India has firmly reaffirmed its commitment to protecting its energy security and national interests. With rising geopolitical tensions and uncertainty in global oil supply chains, the country is prioritizing stable and affordable energy sources.
The growing oil trade with Russia highlights India’s strategy of maintaining economic stability while exercising independent decision-making. As one of the world’s largest energy consumers, India continues to focus on long-term supply security to support its economy and the needs of its citizens.
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