Russia steps in: 9.5 million barrels of oil diverted to India as Gulf routes close

New Delhi: As tensions in the Middle East escalate into a major regional conflict, Russia has stepped forward with an emergency energy "lifeline" for India. With the strategic Strait of Hormuz effectively closed to commercial traffic, Moscow is reportedly ready to divert millions of barrels of crude oil to help India avoid a looming energy crisis.

The emergency plan: 9.5M barrels ready

According to Reuters, sources with direct knowledge of the situation, approximately 9.5 million barrels of Russian crude are already on vessels stationed near Indian waters. These shipments can be redirected and delivered to Indian refineries within weeks, providing immediate relief as traditional supply routes from the Middle East face unprecedented disruptions.

The move comes at a critical time for India, the world's third-largest oil consumer.

The nation currently holds:

Crude Oil Stocks: Enough to cover roughly 25 days of demand.

Refined Products: Limited inventories of gasoline, diesel, and LPG.

Why the Strait of Hormuz matters

The disruption began after recent military strikes between the U.S., Israel, and Iran led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—the world’s most vital oil artery.

• 40% of India’s crude imports typically pass through this narrow passage.
• Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) supplies have also been hit, with major supplier Qatar halting production recently due to the widening conflict.

Navigating global diplomacy

India’s return to Russian oil is a delicate balancing act. Earlier this year, imports from Moscow dropped as New Delhi navigated trade talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. While the Trump administration previously claimed India would "stop buying Russian oil" in exchange for tariff relief, New Delhi has maintained a strategy of "independent diversification."With the Middle East in turmoil, the Indian government is now scouting for all available alternatives to ensure domestic energy security.

What’s next for fuel prices?

While Russian oil has historically been sold at a discount, experts warn that the current crisis has created a "sellers' market." As global supply tightens, the price gap is expected to narrow. However, for Indian refiners, the priority has shifted from cost-saving to ensuring that fuel continues to flow to pumps and factories across the country.