Russia May Redirect Crude to India Amid Hormuz Disruption
Russia is prepared to redirect crude oil shipments to India as escalating tensions in the Middle East threaten supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy trade. Around 9.5 million barrels of Russian crude are currently on vessels near Indian waters and could be delivered within weeks, providing quick support to Indian refiners if disruptions worsen.
India has begun exploring alternative supply options as instability in the Gulf raises concerns about oil shipments. Nearly 40% of India’s crude imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making the country highly vulnerable to any prolonged disruption. With crude reserves covering only about 25 days of demand and refineries processing roughly 5.6 million barrels per day, securing additional supplies has become a priority.
Industry sources say Russia could potentially meet up to 40% of India’s crude needs if Middle Eastern supplies decline. Imports of Russian oil had dropped earlier this year but began recovering in February. Meanwhile, the global oil market is tightening as the conflict continues, with crude prices and demand dynamics shifting while Donald Trump recently eased tariff pressures linked to India’s earlier purchases of Russian oil.
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