October 27, 2025

Hold on tight! On October 22, the US threw a massive economic curveball by blacklisting Russia’s energy titans Rosneft and Lukoil. These two giants account for a whopping 57% of Russia’s crude oil output and export cash. India, with Russian oil jumping from just 1% to a jaw-dropping 38% in its crude imports post-Ukraine war, is now stuck in a tricky tango. Indian oil companies are already preparing to stop buying Russian oil, fearing US sanctions. But is this about politics, or just picking the best energy deals? The Trump administration lashed out, claiming India’s Russian oil buys were indirectly fueling Putin’s war machine. New Delhi fired back, saying it only wanted affordable energy, nothing more. So, what’s India’s game plan? Two spicy choices lie ahead: Option One: Keep buying Russian oil! Even with the US sanctions, Russia won’t stop selling. India could get crafty—buying through middlemen or using shadow fleets to sneak the oil quietly. But beware! This could anger the US, especially unpredictable Trump, who might slap secondary sanctions on India. Option Two: Play it safe and follow the US sanctions. India can buy from Russian companies not yet banned by the US. The US sanctions hit Rosneft and Lukoil, not all Russian oil sellers. New Delhi might also work out a deal with Washington—stop buying Russian oil to get better trade terms, like removing the 25% extra tariff slapped earlier on Indian goods. Why is this balancing act so important? Because Indian strategists know glory from defying US sanctions won’t pay bills or secure power. Instead, India must think big—using oil deals to boost ties with the US and get help in the Indo-Pacific region. After all, geopolitics is a game of smart moves, not stubborn pride. Happymon Jacob, a top strategic thinker, says, "India should consider halting its Russian oil purchases in exchange for a favourable trade deal with the US." He stresses that pushing back against Trump’s sanctions might hurt India more than help. Instead, Delhi should negotiate for cooperation that restores regional balance and supports India's interests. The big takeaway? India’s choices are about survival and strategy. With limited room to defy American sanctions, India must turn challenges into opportunities. Engage wisely, pick your battles, and keep the energy flowing! As global moves unfold, all eyes watch India’s next step in this oil-drama doused with politics and power.

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Tags: Russian oil sanctions, India imports, Rosneft, Lukoil, Us sanctions, India-us relations,