As of August 2025, Indian refiners are still sourcing crude oil from Russian sources, completely complying with international standards while making selections based on economic considerations including pricing, crude quality, inventory levels, and logistics.
Russia is the second-largest producer and exporter of crude oil in the world, producing over 9.5 million barrels per day, yet neither the US nor the EU have ever imposed sanctions on its oil. Rather, a G7/EU price cap system has been used to manage Russian oil in order to reduce Russian earnings while maintaining a steady supply worldwide.
With its 85% reliance on imported crude oil, India is the world’s third-largest energy user. As such, it strategically sources inexpensive energy, which helps to stabilize the world market.
Indian refiners adhere to the $60 price restriction on Russian crude that the US recommends and the upcoming $47.6 cap set by the EU in September 2025. Commercial reasons have led India to purchase petroleum from Russia, and Indian Oil Marketing Companies have avoided purchasing Iranian or Veneuelan oil, which are subject to US sanctions.
Furthermore, the EU continues to be the biggest buyer of Russian pipeline gas and the largest importer of Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), making up 51% of Russian LNG exports. China and Japan are the next two major importers of LNG.
India maintains its ethical sourcing of Russian oil within international norms, optimizing for price and market circumstances. It denies the claim that purchases have stopped in spite of internal pauses and foreign pressure, which were briefly reported in late July 2025.
