Fact Check: India is a major buyer of Russian oil.

Fact Check: "India is a major buyer of Russian oil."

What We Know

India has significantly increased its imports of Russian oil in recent years. Following the geopolitical shifts due to the conflict in Ukraine, India has emerged as one of the largest importers of Russian crude oil. Reports indicate that Russian oil now constitutes approximately 40-44% of India's total crude oil imports, a dramatic rise from less than 1% prior to the conflict (Economic Times). In May 2025, India's imports of Russian crude oil reached a peak of nearly 1.8 million barrels per day, marking the highest level in ten months (Reuters). This trend reflects India's strategic pivot towards more affordable energy sources amidst rising global oil prices.

Analysis

The claim that India is a major buyer of Russian oil is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Economic Times highlights that the share of Russian oil in India's imports has surged, indicating a substantial shift in India's energy procurement strategy (Economic Times). Furthermore, Reuters corroborates this by providing specific figures on the volume of Russian oil imports, reinforcing the assertion that India is indeed a significant buyer (Reuters).

The reliability of these sources is high; both are well-established news organizations known for their rigorous reporting standards. The CIA World Factbook and Wikipedia provide contextual background on India's economy and energy needs, but they do not specifically address the recent surge in Russian oil imports (CIA World Factbook, Wikipedia).

While some sources may exhibit a slight bias—such as those focusing on geopolitical implications—overall, the data presented is consistent across multiple reports and reflects a clear trend in India's energy imports.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that India is a major buyer of Russian oil is accurate. The evidence indicates a significant increase in the volume and percentage of Russian crude oil in India's imports, particularly in the context of recent geopolitical events. This shift not only highlights India's changing energy landscape but also its strategic decisions in response to global market dynamics.

Fact Check: India is a major buyer of Russian oil.