Since 2022, India has cut down its oil expenses by about $12.6 billion by buying Russian crude at discounted rates, according to figures cited by the Indian Express.

Experts note the impact goes beyond India’s own budget relief. By absorbing a significant share of Russian oil redirected away from Europe, India—alongside China—helped ease pressure on the global market. This shift is believed to have prevented Brent crude from staying above $100 a barrel for an extended period following Western sanctions on Moscow.

The strategy hasn’t escaped criticism. U.S. officials have accused India of taking advantage of the situation, with one White House adviser branding the country “a laundromat for the Kremlin” for refining Russian crude and exporting the products at higher prices.

India has pushed back against such claims. Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri pointed out that Russian oil has not been subjected to full sanctions like Iranian or Venezuelan supplies, but rather placed under a price-cap system by the G7 and EU to ensure stable flows while limiting Moscow’s income.

Puri added that India’s compliance with international rules helped the world avoid a potential shock of $200 per barrel, stressing that Russia’s role as the world’s second-largest oil producer—covering nearly 10% of global demand—cannot be ignored.

The situation underscores how New Delhi continues to balance outside political pressure with its own energy security and affordability needs.