Indian refiners have increased their purchases of US crude oil, driven by favorable pricing amid pressure from the US to reduce imports of Russian oil. Major companies like Reliance Industries, Indian Oil Corp., and Bharat Petroleum have notably bought more West Texas Intermediate crude as it became cheaper than Middle Eastern alternatives. This shift occurs against a backdrop of heightened US scrutiny, with accusations that India supports Russia’s actions in Ukraine. India has defended its oil purchasing strategy, labeling US tactics as unfair and insisting on its right to maintain energy security while navigating geopolitical tensions.