New Delhi — India’s energy decisions continue to be shaped by its own strategic priorities rather than external pressure, according to an analysis that examined the country’s crude oil import patterns over the past year.
The study by The Matrix, based on data from November 2024 to February 2026, suggests that India continued to expand its imports of Russian crude oil despite diplomatic pressure from the United States during the presidency of Donald Trump.
According to the analysis shared on the social media platform X (Twitter), US pressure on India over Russian oil purchases began even before Trump formally assumed office. During his election campaign in September 2024, Trump had cautioned India against continuing large-scale imports of crude oil from Russia.
After taking office in January 2025, Washington’s rhetoric reportedly evolved into policy actions aimed at discouraging the trade. Tensions escalated further on April 2, 2025, when the US administration introduced a 25 per cent “reciprocal tariff”.
However, the data reviewed in the analysis indicated that India did not scale back its purchases. Instead, the share of Russian crude in India’s total oil imports reportedly climbed to 43 per cent during that period — the highest level recorded in the timeframe examined.
Relations between the two countries reportedly faced additional strain after India conducted a military action referred to as Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
Subsequently, on August 6, the White House announced stricter trade measures, imposing a combined 50 per cent tariff — consisting of a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and another 25 per cent levy linked to India’s continued purchase of Russian energy.
Despite these measures, India’s imports of Russian crude reportedly kept rising. The analysis stated that shipments increased from around 1.6 million barrels per day in August to nearly 2 million barrels per day by October 2025.
The standoff between the two countries eventually appeared to ease. On February 7, 2026, Trump announced that sanctions related to the issue would be lifted, though he also cautioned that further action could be considered if necessary.
According to the data cited in the analysis, India’s imports of Russian oil still grew by about 8 per cent in February 2026 compared with the previous month.
The report also suggested that Washington later softened its stance amid broader geopolitical tensions, including developments involving Iran.
On March 6, 2026, the US reportedly removed the sanctions while allowing a 30-day transition period.
The findings from the 15-month data period indicate that India prioritised affordable and stable energy supplies to meet domestic demand, even while navigating complex diplomatic relations with global partners.
According to the analysis, the trend underscores New Delhi’s focus on energy security and national interest while maintaining its broader strategic relationships on the international stage.
With inputs from IANS