India to take ‘all measures’ after US passes Russia sanctions bill

India pledged on Thursday to continue securing oil from multiple sources following the US approval of sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia amid its war in Ukraine. The legislation targets Russia's energy and defense sectors, President Vladimir Putin, and other high-ranking officials, as well as Moscow's so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to bypass Western sanctions.

It also grants President Donald Trump the power to impose tariffs up to 100% on major purchasers of Russian oil and gas, potentially including China and India, in an attempt to cut off revenue funding Moscow's conflict. India's Foreign Ministry emphasized its unwavering commitment to guaranteeing energy security for its 1.4 billion citizens through diversified sourcing and market dynamics.

Recognizing Moscow as a crucial strategic partner and military supplier, India has sought to navigate the energy crisis sparked by the US-Iran conflict by increasing its reliance on Russian oil. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Russian President Putin in New Delhi last week before a BRICS summit, where discussions about the issue took place at senior levels.

Indian refiners significantly increased crude imports from Russia to 2.25 million barrels per day in March, following the outbreak of the Middle East war, thanks to temporary US waivers. Shipments peaked at 2.81 million barrels in July, as reported by trade intelligence company Kpler, but had since decreased to 2.07 million in the latest month.