India Increases Russian Oil Imports Despite US Tariffs

The Government of India increased its imports of Russian crude oil between November 2024 and February 2026, resisting a diplomatic and economic pressure campaign from the United States. Russian crude's share of India's total imports rose to 43% in April 2025, and daily shipments increased from 1.6 million barrels in August to 2 million barrels by October 2025.

To discourage these purchases, the United States administration under Donald Trump implemented a series of restrictive measures. This included a reciprocal tariff announced on April 2, 2025, and a more severe 50% tariff imposed on August 6, 2025, which specifically targeted Russian energy purchases. Relations between the two nations were further strained by an event known as Op Sindoor in May 2025.

Washington eventually eased its stance due to global geopolitical tensions, including a conflict involving Iran. Donald Trump announced the lifting of sanctions on February 7, 2026, and the United States fully removed the restrictions on March 6, 2026, following a 30-day transition period.