TNI Bureau: The United States has granted India a temporary 30-day window to purchase Russian oil cargoes that are currently stranded at sea, offering short-term relief to global energy markets amid rising geopolitical tensions.
According to reports, the waiver permits Indian refiners to buy Russian crude that had already been loaded onto tankers before the latest restrictions took effect. Several shipments were left without confirmed buyers after tighter sanctions on Russia’s energy trade disrupted transactions and shipping arrangements.
US officials said the move is aimed at preventing disruptions in global oil supply rather than easing pressure on Russia. By allowing these cargoes to be delivered, Washington hopes to stabilise markets and avoid further spikes in crude prices.
India, one of the world’s largest importers of crude oil, has significantly increased purchases of discounted Russian oil in recent years. The temporary permission will allow Indian refiners to receive these shipments and maintain supply during a period of volatility in international energy markets.
The decision also comes at a time when tensions in West Asia have raised concerns over possible disruptions to major oil shipping routes. Analysts believe the waiver could help ensure smoother supply flows and prevent shortages.
However, the exemption is strictly limited to 30 days, after which the existing sanctions framework on Russian oil will continue to apply unless further policy decisions are taken.
