Russia's Crude Flow to India Slows as Moscow Turns to Delhi for Fuel

Russian crude supplies to India fell sharply in August, marking a significant shift in the energy relationship between the two countries. At the same time, an unusual reversal of traditional trade flows emerged: Moscow turned to New Delhi for gasoline, as Ukrainian strikes disrupted its refineries and other energy infrastructure.

The development underscores how the war in Ukraine is reshaping global energy routes. India, which had become a major buyer of discounted Russian crude, is now seeing that supply dwindle. Meanwhile, Russia's need for refined fuel has opened a new channel of trade in the opposite direction.

The exact volumes and the duration of these changes remain unclear, but the trend signals a realignment in one of the world's most closely watched energy partnerships. The shift comes amid broader discussions about tariffs and sanctions, though the wire material does not specify any direct link.

Both countries have yet to comment publicly on the specifics of the trade data. The reversal highlights the growing complexity of energy security as conflicts disrupt traditional supply chains.