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Questioning India’s dependence on Russian oil amid Red Sea instability

Published July 28, 2026 at 10:33 AM UTC

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While the discounts are attractive, India’s heavy reliance on Russian oil carries serious risks. The Red Sea crisis exposes supply chain fragility: any escalation could block key shipping lanes, forcing India into costly emergency purchases. Continued imports also bolster Russia’s war economy, potentially straining ties with the US and Europe. Indian banks face secondary sanctions risks, complicating trade payments. Critics argue that over-dependence on a single source undermines India’s long-term energy diversification and climate goals. The short-term savings may not justify the strategic vulnerabilities created.