India Faces No US Pressure to Reduce Russian Oil Imports, Says Minister

NEW DELHI: Indian Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated on Tuesday that India has not experienced any pressure from the United States to cut its imports of Russian crude oil. Speaking at an industry event, Puri emphasized, “I never felt anything,” when asked about potential US influence on India’s oil purchasing decisions.

Puri highlighted that prior to the Ukraine war, India sourced only 0.2 percent of its oil imports from Russia. However, this figure has significantly increased since the conflict began, as India seeks to diversify its energy sources amidst global supply disruptions. He also noted that oil supplies from the Middle East have been on the rise, allowing the region to ship out more cargoes to meet demand.

This statement comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and discussions surrounding energy security. India’s continued importation of Russian oil has drawn scrutiny from Western nations, particularly as they impose sanctions on Russia. The Indian government’s stance reflects its strategy to maintain energy security while navigating complex international relations.

Looking ahead, India is expected to continue monitoring its oil import strategies, balancing domestic energy needs with international diplomatic pressures. Future discussions with US officials may further clarify the dynamics of India’s energy imports and its relationship with Russia.