India should base its crude oil import strategy on domestic economic interests and energy security rather than succumbing to threats of US tariffs on Russian oil, according to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI).
The think tank’s stance reinforces New Delhi’s broader position that strategic autonomy in energy procurement must take precedence over external political pressure.
The commentary comes as a new legislative proposal in the US Senate seeks to impose 100% tariffs on imports from India and four other nations that continue to purchase Russian crude.
The commentary comes as a new legislative proposal in the US Senate seeks to impose 100% tariffs on imports from India and four other nations that continue to purchase Russian crude.
The bill, introduced by a group of senators, aims to penalize countries maintaining energy ties with Moscow, potentially disrupting established supply chains and trade balances.
Despite the legislative threat, Indian government sources have indicated that the proposed tariffs are unlikely to complicate ongoing trade negotiations with Washington.
Officials argue that resolving differences through dialogue remains the preferred path, even as the US attempts to leverage trade policy to isolate Russia’s energy sector.