India Turns to Russian Oil Amid Iran War, Supply Disruptions

New Delhi weighs diplomatic risks to ease energy crisis as Strait of Hormuz chokes off Middle Eastern crude

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:00am

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A vibrant abstract illustration composed of overlapping triangles and circles in shades of blue, red, and yellow, conceptually representing the complex global dynamics surrounding India's oil supply challenges.As global oil flows are disrupted, India faces a high-stakes decision on whether to deepen its reliance on Russian crude to ease an energy crisis.Today in Miami

India, the world's third-largest oil importer, is quietly pushing to resume buying Russian crude oil as the escalating Iran-Tehran conflict has virtually choked off Middle Eastern oil flows, leaving its reserves dangerously low. This controversial move risks reigniting tensions with the U.S. but could ease immediate supply concerns for the energy-hungry nation.

Why it matters

India's current oil reserves can barely cover two weeks of consumption, exposing the fragility of its energy security. With 85% of its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply passing through the Strait of Hormuz, India faces an urgent need to diversify its sources amid the near-total halt of traffic through this critical waterway.

The details

India had recently distanced itself from Russian crude to align with U.S. sanctions and trade negotiations. But now, with Middle Eastern oil flows disrupted, Indian officials are exploring a diplomatic workaround to tap into millions of barrels of Russian oil idling in Asian storage hubs. This could ease supply concerns but risks reigniting tensions with Washington.

  • The Iran-Tehran conflict has virtually choked off Middle Eastern oil flows in recent weeks.
  • India's current oil reserves can barely cover two weeks of consumption.

The players

India

The world's third-largest oil importer, facing a critical energy crisis due to the disruption of Middle Eastern oil flows.

United States

India had recently distanced itself from Russian crude to align with U.S. sanctions and trade negotiations, but now faces pressure to resume those ties.

Russia

India is exploring a diplomatic workaround to tap into millions of barrels of Russian oil idling in Asian storage hubs.

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What they’re saying

“Both India and China may now deepen their reliance on Russian oil, with India likely to act swiftly due to proximity and existing logistics.”

— Amena Bakr, Analyst, Kpler

What’s next

India's decision on whether to resume buying Russian oil amid the Iran-Tehran conflict could have far-reaching geopolitical implications and reshape global oil dynamics.

The takeaway

India's energy crisis highlights the fragility of global oil supply chains and the difficult diplomatic balancing act nations must navigate to ensure their energy security.