India has received permission from the US to purchase Russian oil
6 March 06:53
The US has temporarily allowed India to continue purchasing Russian oil that is already being transported by sea in tankers. The decision will remain in effect for 30 days and is intended to stabilize the global energy market amid tensions in the Middle East.
This was announced by US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant on social media platform X, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Why the US made an exception
According to Bessent, the temporary easing of restrictions for India is related to the situation on the global energy market.
Due to the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, Iran is trying to influence global energy supplies. In particular, tensions have increased due to risks to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant part of the world’s oil exports pass.
Washington explained that the decision is aimed at reducing pressure on global energy markets.
What restrictions remain
The US has emphasized that the exemption for India is temporary.
According to the US Treasury Secretary:
- India will only be able to purchase Russian oil that has already been loaded onto tankers
- new deliveries are not covered by the exemption.
Thus, Washington believes that this decision will not lead to a significant increase in Russia’s revenues.
Previous pressure on India
Earlier, the administration of US President Donald Trump tried to persuade India to refuse to purchase Russian energy resources.
Washington has repeatedly
- called on Delhi to stop importing Russian oil
- threatened to impose additional customs tariffs.
The White House previously stated that pressure on India had allegedly helped to reduce funding for the Russian military machine.
India’s role in the oil market
India remains one of the largest buyers of Russian oil after the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
The country actively purchases energy resources at a discount, which allows it to:
- reduce energy import costs
- support economic growth
- ensure stable fuel supplies.
At the same time, the US decision indicates that the global energy situation may force Washington to temporarily adjust its sanctions policy.
