India Shifts Toward Venezuelan Crude As US Pressure On Russian Oil Imports Intensifies

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:14pm on 22 May 2026,Friday India Global

India appears to be increasing crude oil imports from Venezuela while gradually diversifying away from Russian supplies amid mounting pressure from the United States and global sanctions dynamics. Reports indicate Indian refiners are exploring cheaper Venezuelan heavy crude as geopolitical tensions, sanctions uncertainty, and disruptions in West Asian supply routes reshape energy trade patterns. Venezuela recently emerged as one of India’s top crude suppliers, driven by demand from major refiners seeking stable and cost-effective alternatives. However, Indian officials maintain that energy purchases remain guided by commercial interests and national energy security rather than external political pressure. (PC: PTI)

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