Imposing a complete ban on Russia could prove to be risky for the Trump administration. India started buying large quantities of oil from Russia from 2022 only after sanctions were imposed on Russia by Europe.

India has opted not to direct its oil refiners to cease purchasing Russian oil, as officials carefully navigate the complexities of energy demands alongside diplomatic relations with US. While refiners have the flexibility to procure from preferred suppliers,

India has not issued any directive to its oil refiners to halt purchases of Russian crude, Bloomberg reported, citing people familiar with the matter. The decision comes as the Indian government navigates its energy security needs while managing diplomatic ties with Moscow and avoiding further tensions with US President Donald Trump.