Moscow/New Delhi: As geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East and concerns grow over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, India is signaling renewed interest in boosting imports of Russian crude oil to safeguard its energy security.
The crisis intensified following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, raising fears that Tehran could block or restrict passage through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the worldโs most critical oil transit routes. Nearly 20% of global oil supplies and a significant share of liquefied natural gas (LNG) pass through the narrow waterway.
Russia Confirms Fresh Signals from India
Russiaโs Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said Moscow has received indications that India may increase purchases of Russian crude.
โWe are seeing renewed interest from Indian partners in expanding oil imports,โ Novak said during an interview with Rossiya 1 television.
His remarks come after India had slightly reduced its Russian oil intake in recent months amid Western pressure and evolving market conditions.
Energy Security at Stake
India imports more than 85% of its crude oil requirements, making it highly vulnerable to disruptions in the Gulf region. Any prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could severely impact supplies from key producers such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and Kuwait.
In this context, Russia has emerged once again as a strategic alternative supplier for New Delhi.
However, Russian media outlet NTV reported that Moscow may reconsider the steep discounts it previously offered to Asian buyers, including India, as tighter global supplies could strengthen Russiaโs pricing power.
Europeโs Possible Shift
Novak also hinted that the energy shock could push the European Union to reassess sanctions on Russian oil and gas if supply shortages worsen across the continent.
Global Market Impact
If disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz persist, global crude prices could surge sharply. For India, the challenge will not only be securing stable supplies but also managing rising domestic fuel prices and inflationary pressures.
Energy analysts warn that prolonged instability in the Gulf could reshape global oil trade flows, with Russia playing a larger role in supplying Asian markets.
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