India to Keep Buying Russian Oil Despite NATO Chief’s Warning

India has made it clear that it will not be swayed by international pressure when it comes to purchasing oil, even as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte warned of “100% secondary sanctions” on countries like India, China, and Brazil for continuing oil trade with Russia.

Speaking at the Urja Varta 2025 conference, Union Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that India would continue sourcing oil based on its needs, without naming Russia directly. “We will buy from wherever we have to. The Prime Minister’s commitment is to the Indian consumer,” he said.

The Ministry of External Affairs echoed this view. Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “Meeting the energy needs of our people is our top priority. Our choices are guided by what is available in the market and the global situation.” He also cautioned against applying double standards in such matters.

NATO’s Mark Rutte, in a recent statement, warned that countries continuing to trade with Russia, especially India, China, and Brazil, could face serious consequences. “If you’re in Delhi, Beijing or Brasilia, you should take a close look at this,” he said, suggesting tough sanctions might follow if Russia doesn’t agree to a peace deal within 50 days.

India, however, stood firm, stating that it is confident in its decisions and prepared for any outcome.

India imports about 85% of the oil it uses. Since the conflict in Ukraine began in 2022, the country has been buying more oil from Russia at discounted prices. This strategy has helped India save money and keep fuel prices in check. As a result, India’s oil import bill dropped nearly 19% between April and June this year compared to the same period last year, according to official data.

Even after Western sanctions on Russia, supplies have continued. In early 2025, India was still receiving around 1.68 million barrels of Russian oil per day, thanks to ongoing discounts and alternate shipping arrangements.

Minister Puri also highlighted that India is no longer dependent on just a few countries for oil. “We used to buy oil from 27 countries; now we source it from 40,” he said. This, he explained, gives India flexibility and resilience in the face of any global disruption.

He also pointed out that newer oil-producing countries like Brazil, Guyana, and Canada are entering the market, which could help lower prices globally.
India also has emergency oil reserves that can last between 21 to 25 days, and officials say the country can manage even if key supply routes like the Strait of Hormuz face temporary blockades.

Energy analysts warn that if the US or NATO impose tariffs on Russian oil, India could face a spike in costs. Discounted Russian oil has been cheaper by $3 to $8 per barrel compared to alternatives from the Middle East or the US.

If those supplies are blocked or become too risky, India might have to shift to more expensive oil, which could affect fuel prices and refiner profits unless new deals are negotiated.

Still, India’s government is confident it can adapt. “If anything changes, we will deal with it,” Puri said.

Also Read: NATO Warns India, China, Brazil to Rethink Russia Trade or Face Sanctions