Marco Rubio Says India Is Diversifying Oil Imports for Its Own Interests, Not Under US Pressure

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said that India’s efforts to diversify its crude oil imports are driven by its national interests rather than pressure from Washington, highlighting New Delhi’s focus on energy security amid changing global trade and geopolitical conditions. In an interview with India Today, Rubio acknowledged India’s efforts to expand its sources of crude oil, noting that dependence on a limited number of suppliers can expose countries to economic uncertainty and supply disruptions. His remarks come amid continued discussions between India and the United States over New Delhi’s purchases of Russian oil.

India increased its imports of Russian crude after the conflict in Ukraine began in 2022, taking advantage of discounted supplies to meet domestic energy demand. The purchases, however, became a point of disagreement with Washington, particularly under US President Donald Trump’s administration, which criticised India’s continued energy trade with Moscow.

India has maintained that its oil procurement decisions are guided by national priorities, market conditions and the need to secure affordable energy for its population and industries. The country has also been broadening its supplier network to reduce reliance on individual sources. According to figures cited in recent reporting, Russia’s share of India’s crude oil imports has declined from 46.6% to 33.5%, while supplies from the Middle East have increased. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has said India has expanded its crude oil supplier base from 27 countries to 41.

Rubio indicated that the United States could play a greater role in meeting India’s energy requirements through increased supplies of American oil and other energy resources. Greater energy trade could create commercial opportunities for US producers while giving Indian refiners additional sourcing options.

Any major change in India’s oil imports will depend on prices, shipping costs, refinery requirements and the reliability of supplies. Different types of crude oil are not always interchangeable, meaning refiners must assess the technical and commercial implications before switching suppliers. India imports a substantial majority of the crude oil it consumes, making energy security a key economic priority. Changes in global oil prices can affect transportation expenses, manufacturing costs and inflation, placing pressure on businesses and consumers.

A broader supplier network can help India respond to disruptions and negotiate more effectively with producers. However, diversification does not necessarily mean ending purchases from Russia or any other major supplier. Instead, it allows New Delhi to adjust its import mix according to market conditions and national requirements.

Rubio’s comments underline the importance of India’s independent approach to energy procurement as it manages relations with Washington, Moscow and major oil-producing countries in the Middle East. For New Delhi, the priority remains securing reliable supplies at competitive prices while protecting its strategic autonomy.

India’s future crude oil purchasing decisions are likely to depend on international prices, geopolitical developments and the availability of commercially viable alternatives. The country’s challenge will be to expand its energy options without increasing costs or compromising the stability of its domestic fuel supply.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indin Today.