Russia vs Venezuela: Who Delivers Oil Faster and Better for India?

• India now has two primary oil suppliers: Russia and Venezuela, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
• Russian oil reaches India faster (24-40 days) compared to Venezuelan oil (45-50 days) due to geographical proximity.
• Venezuelan VLCC ships carry twice the volume of oil (2 million barrels) as Russian Aframax/Suezmax ships (0.7-1 million barrels).
• Russian oil is 'light and sweet,' easier to refine, yielding more petrol, diesel, and jet fuel. Venezuelan oil is 'thick and viscous' with high sulfur, but sold cheaply.
• Indian refineries, especially Reliance, are equipped to refine Venezuela's heavy crude, and US tariff reductions linked to Venezuelan oil purchases could offer broader economic benefits.

Why It Matters: India balances faster delivery and quality from Russia with cost-effectiveness and strategic benefits from Venezuela.