US Claims India Stopped Russian Oil Buys: Is it True Amid Trump Tariffs?

• US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent claimed India stopped buying Russian oil due to Trump tariffs and penalties, a claim echoed by Donald Trump.
• Analysts and energy trackers question Bessent's assertion, suggesting recent dips are market-driven adjustments, not a policy shift.
• India's energy security strategy prioritizes price, availability, and long-term demand, importing nearly 90% of its oil needs.
• Russia became India's largest oil supplier post-Ukraine war due to heavy discounts, with imports reaching nearly two million barrels per day by mid-2025.
• Despite a recent decline in December, Indian officials maintain their decision to buy Russian oil is based on national interest and affordability, not political pressure.

Why It Matters: US claims of India halting Russian oil purchases are disputed; India's energy strategy prioritizes economic factors.