India halves its imports of Russian oil - Reuters
Illustrative photo: India cuts its oil purchases from Russia (Getty Images)
India has significantly reduced its oil purchases from Russia following a statement by US President Donald Trump, according to Reuters.
The outlet, citing an unnamed senior White House official, reported that Indian refineries have cut their imports of Russian oil by 50%.
However, the official did not provide further details.
US tariffs on India
In August 2025, amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, the administration of US President Donald Trump decided to impose 50% tariffs on goods from India.
These measures were prompted by India’s continued purchases of Russian oil, which Washington viewed as helping to finance Russia’s military. In response, Indian authorities protested, calling the sanctions "unfair and unjustified."
On the night of October 16, President Trump stated that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised to halt purchases of Russian oil.
However, India’s Ministry of External Affairs denied these claims, stating that it was not aware of any such conversation between the two leaders.
Earlier, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that 85 US senators support 500% tariffs on China for continuing to buy oil from Russia.
According to Bessent, China purchases 60% of its energy resources from Russia.
