Trump Pressure Fails, India Becomes Second Largest Buyer Of Russian Oil After China In September

International News: India has bought crude oil worth nearly 25,597 crore rupees from Russia in September. This makes India the second-largest buyer of Russian fuel after China. The data comes from Helsinki-based Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). According to the report, China imported crude worth 3.2 billion euros during the same period, maintaining its lead as Russia’s top buyer. India, however, has overtaken many others, showing its growing dependence on cheaper Russian energy supplies.

China Remains Russia’s Top Importer

While India stands second, China continues to dominate as the largest importer of Russian fossil fuels. China’s total energy imports from Russia reached 5.5 billion euros in September. It purchased massive quantities of crude oil, coal, LNG, and pipeline gas, keeping Russia as its key energy supplier. India, on the other hand, has relied mainly on crude and refined fuel but avoided Russian gas imports completely.

India’s Import Levels Decline In September

Interestingly, India’s imports from Russia dropped 9% in September, marking the lowest level since February. This fall came after state-run oil companies cut purchases by nearly 38%, the sharpest decline since May 2022. Despite this fall, Russia remains India’s top source for affordable crude oil. India also imported coal worth 452 million euros and refined fuel worth 344 million euros during this period.

U.S. Pressure And Trade Tensions

The Trump administration has been putting constant pressure on India to reduce Russian oil imports. Washington has even imposed an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports. No such action has been taken against other countries buying Russian fuel. This selective pressure has led to growing concern in India’s trade circles, but energy security needs have kept purchases intact.

Turkey And European Union Follow Behind

Turkey was the third-largest buyer, with purchases worth 2.6 billion euros. However, its refined oil imports dropped by 27% due to Russia reducing diesel production after Ukraine attacks. The European Union also bought 743 million euros worth of LNG and pipeline gas, along with 311 million euros worth of crude oil, maintaining its position as a key but shrinking buyer.

South Korea Maintains Fifth Place

South Korea imported fossil fuels worth 283 million euros in September, making it the fifth-largest buyer of Russian energy. While the figures are much lower than China and India, it still reflects the growing role of Asia in Russia’s energy exports. With Europe reducing dependence after the Ukraine war, Asia has become the lifeline market for Russian fossil fuels.

India Balances Security With Economy

Even though India’s imports dipped slightly, Russia continues to be a vital partner in its energy basket. Cheaper Russian crude helps India control domestic fuel prices and manage its energy security. Experts believe that India will keep balancing between global political pressure and its own economic needs. The September numbers prove that despite Washington’s push, New Delhi still sees Moscow as a steady and reliable energy supplier.