By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Indian oil refiners continue to procure oil from Russian suppliers, prioritizing factors like price and logistics. Sources indicated that India’s strategy aligns with its role as a major energy consumer, ensuring access to affordable energy while adhering to international standards, even as the U.S. has voiced concerns. Historically, Russian oil has not been sanctioned, but rather subject to a price-cap mechanism, and India has maintained fully legitimate purchases within those established frameworks. India’s actions have contributed to global energy stability, ensuring that markets remain liquid and prices remain stable.
Read the original article here
Indian Oil refiners continue to source oil from Russia, and it’s become a complex issue with many layers to it. It’s clear that this isn’t just a simple transaction; it involves economics, geopolitics, and deeply held national interests. The central question is straightforward: why does India continue to buy oil from Russia despite the global pressure and ethical concerns?
The answer, at its core, seems to be economics. Russia offers oil at a significantly lower price, a crucial factor for a developing nation with a massive population like India. The desire to keep inflation in check and ensure affordable energy for its citizens is a primary driver. India, after all, is still working to overcome the challenges of being a developing nation, with an eye toward the welfare of its people. Historically, India has bought oil from other countries too, like Venezuela and Iran, but they were asked to stop, why can’t India keep its current supplier.
The West, especially the US and some European nations, has expressed disapproval, citing the moral implications of funding Russia’s war in Ukraine. The argument is that by purchasing Russian oil, India is indirectly supporting the conflict. However, India sees the situation differently. It views its actions as necessary for national interest and a matter of economic survival. It’s a complex web of needing to prioritize its own people. India also seems to resent the perceived double standards in how the West applies pressure, while the US, as an example, can be seen as indirectly supporting other countries in situations that some consider morally questionable.
A key aspect of the discussion is the role of oil refineries. India’s refineries are not simply switching suppliers. The refining process is a complicated one. Different types of oil have different properties, and refineries are designed to process specific crude blends. Switching suppliers can require adjustments and can impact the type of products they can produce. It’s not as easy as simply buying oil from another source.
The West’s response to India’s actions highlights a difference in perspective. The Western approach leans towards sanctions and diplomatic pressure, essentially trying to make it more difficult for India to buy Russian oil. However, India seems to be focused on maintaining its own interests and making the best possible choices for its citizens, even if it means going against global norms.
The debate also brings up the role of the United States. The US could potentially provide or arrange for oil at similar prices, as some have suggested, but the US may not choose to, or be able to, step in and fill the gap in the market. Even if this were to happen, it would likely require a change in India’s existing relationships and economic frameworks.
Looking ahead, the situation is unlikely to resolve quickly. India has positioned itself as a nation that puts its interests first. Whether sanctions or diplomacy can change this behavior remains to be seen. Ultimately, the price of oil, India’s internal needs, and the global political climate will determine the future.