India is strategically navigating a complex oil import landscape as Russia offers significant discounts on crude oil amid US sanctions on key Russian producers. This price cut, which has seen discounts widen significantly since mid-2025, comes as Indian refiners, including Reliance Industries, adapt to a sharp 66% drop in direct imports from Russia due to compliance issues. In response, India is diversifying its crude sources, increasing imports from the Middle East and the US to mitigate risks and maintain energy security, while also employing non-sanctioned intermediaries for Russian oil procurement. This delicate balancing act reflects India’s broader efforts to secure energy supplies while managing geopolitical tensions and maintaining essential partnerships with major oil-exporting nations.