The United States has granted India a temporary 30-day waiver allowing the continued purchase of Russian oil, as tensions in the Middle East disrupt global energy markets following the shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump said the decision was intended to reduce pressure on global oil supplies and support stability during the ongoing crisis.
“I would do it just to take a little of the pressure off. We’ve got a lot of oil in our country, and there’s plenty of oil available worldwide,” Trump said while addressing the issue.
The development comes after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent earlier suggested that Washington had given “permission” to India to buy Russian oil. Bessent said India had previously been asked to stop purchasing sanctioned Russian crude and had initially considered replacing it with imports from the United States.
However, the Indian government strongly rejected the suggestion that its energy decisions depend on approval from any other country.
In an official statement, New Delhi emphasised that India’s energy security remains stable and diversified. The government said India now sources crude oil from about 40 countries, compared to 27 earlier, ensuring multiple supply routes and reducing dependence on any single supplier.
Officials reiterated that India continues to buy crude oil from whichever market offers the most competitive and affordable prices.
A senior government official clarified that while the US waiver may reduce complications related to sanctions, it does not determine India’s policy on energy purchases.
“India has never relied on permission from any country to procure oil. Our energy policy is driven by national interest and guided by affordability, availability and sustainability,” the official said.
The government also reassured citizens that India’s fuel supply remains secure despite the volatile global situation and that authorities are closely monitoring developments linked to the regional conflict.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
