India-Maintains-Russian-Oil-Trade-Amid-U.S.-Sanctions-Threat

Despite potential sanctions from U.S. President Donald Trump, Indian officials plan to continue purchasing oil from Russia. This stance was reported by the New York Times, although Reuters has not verified it. The White House, India's Ministry of External Affairs, and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas have not commented on the matter.

Previously, Trump suggested that India might face additional penalties for buying Russian oil. However, in a subsequent statement, he downplayed his concern over India's trade relations with Russia. On Friday, Trump indicated that India might cease purchasing oil from Russia, though Indian officials reported no change in policy.

According to an NYT report, Indian officials have not issued any orders to cut Russian oil imports. Although state refiners temporarily stopped buying due to narrowing discounts in July, Russia remains India's top oil supplier, providing about 35% of its total supply. Trump's recent threat of 100% tariffs hangs on the potential for a major peace deal between Moscow and Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)