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India's Oil Import Strategy and Geopolitical Pressures - January 2026

Focus on India's oil import strategy, particularly concerning Russian and Venezuelan oil, and the geopolitical pressures from the US.

5 Jan 2026 - 19 Jan 20265 updatesUpdated 19 Jan 2026
Russian Oil ImportsVenezuela OilUS SanctionsEnergy SecurityIndia-US Relations

Story Summary

In January 2026, India's oil import strategy remained a delicate balancing act amidst geopolitical pressures. While facing potential tariff threats from the US due to continued reliance on Russian oil, which peaked at 35% in November 2025, India also explored alternative sources. The potential resumption of Venezuelan oil flows, contingent on US sanctions easing, offered a crucial diversification opportunity. Further complicating matters, evolving US foreign policy towards Venezuela and Iran signaled potential shifts in the global energy landscape, impacting India's strategic options. These developments highlight the challenges of navigating energy security in a multipolar world. India's response will be crucial in shaping its energy future and international relations.

Key Facts

1Russian oil accounted for 35% of India's oil imports in November 2025.
2US Senator warned of potential tariff hikes on Indian goods.
3Potential resumption of Venezuelan oil flows is contingent on easing of US sanctions.
4India is the world's third-largest oil consumer and importer.
5India's imports of American oil also reached a seven-month high in November 2025.

Timeline (5 events, 3 days)

19 Jan 2026(Latest)1 event

An article highlights evolving US foreign policy towards Venezuela and Iran, signaling potential shifts in the global energy landscape and impacting India's strategic options.

Source Articles
US Foreign Policy Shift: Venezuela, Iran and Global ImplicationsRead article
6 Jan 20263 events

Reports indicate that the potential resumption of Venezuelan oil flows could significantly benefit India's energy security, contingent on the easing of US sanctions.

Source Articles
Trump Claims India Reduced Russian Oil Imports to Please HimRead article
US Senator Urges India to Cut Russian Oil, Citing Tariff RisksRead article
India's Energy Security Boost: Venezuela Oil Flow ResumesRead article
5 Jan 20261 event

India's Russian oil imports surged to a six-month high in November 2025, accounting for 35% of overall imports, while US Senator warned of tariff risks if India doesn't reduce Russian oil imports and Former US President Trump claimed India reduced Russian oil imports to please him during his presidency.

Source Articles
India's Russian Oil Imports Soar to Six-Month High in November 2025Read article
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