India has imported approximately $168 billion worth of Russian crude oil since the onset of the Ukraine war in February 2022. This figure comes from data provided by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a Finland-based organization that tracks energy flows. With imports totaling around 144 billion euros, India has positioned itself as the second-largest buyer of Russian oil, following China.
Despite international sanctions aimed at curtailing Russia’s energy revenues, the country has managed to maintain significant income from its oil exports. CREA highlights that Russia has earned over 1 trillion euros from global fossil fuel sales since its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. These funds continue to support the ongoing conflict, contributing to humanitarian crises in Ukraine.
India’s Rising Imports and Recent Developments
Following the invasion, India increased its purchases of discounted Russian crude significantly. As a result, Russia became India’s largest supplier, accounting for nearly one-third of the nation’s total crude oil imports. This surge in imports reflects India’s strategy to capitalize on lower prices amid rising global energy costs.
However, recent geopolitical developments have prompted Indian refiners to reduce their purchases of Russian oil. In light of U.S. sanctions on major Russian oil companies, including Rosneft and Lukoil, Indian oil companies are reevaluating their sourcing strategies. Reports indicate that refiners have cut back on Russian crude purchases over the past two months, responding to pressure from the U.S. government.
India’s government is also reportedly engaging in discussions to formalize a trade deal with the United States. This effort aims to address U.S. concerns regarding India’s oil imports from Russia, especially in light of previous criticisms from Donald Trump, who targeted India for its energy transactions with Moscow. In August 2025, Trump increased tariffs on Indian imports, doubling them from 25% to 50% in response to India’s continued engagement with Russian oil.
Global Implications of Russian Oil Imports
The ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay of global energy markets and geopolitical alliances. While India seeks to balance its energy needs with international pressures, the ramifications of its decisions are significant. The CREA has called for measures to end the loopholes that allow Russian oil to flow freely into global markets, emphasizing the need for diversified energy sources and a push towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.
India’s actions in the energy market not only affect its own economy but also influence global oil prices and the geopolitical landscape. As the third-largest crude oil importer in the world, its decisions will continue to be scrutinized by other nations and stakeholders in the international community.
The developments surrounding India’s oil imports from Russia underscore the ongoing consequences of the Ukraine war, as nations navigate a landscape fraught with economic and political challenges. The future of these imports will be crucial in determining not only India’s energy security but also its diplomatic relations on the global stage.
