The United States has granted India a temporary 30-day waiver allowing it to purchase Russian crude oil amid disruptions in global energy markets linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. The decision was taken to ensure the continued flow of oil in the global market and to prevent supply shortages as tensions in the Middle East affect major shipping routes and energy supplies.
A significant portion of the world’s oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and tensions in the region have raised fears of supply shortages and price volatility.
According to reports, the waiver permits Indian refiners to buy Russian oil cargoes that are currently in transit. The move is aimed at preventing a sharp spike in prices during the ongoing geopolitical crisis.
India, which imports a large share of its crude oil, has increasingly relied on Russian oil in recent years due to its availability and pricing. The waiver from the United States allows India to continue buying Russian crude temporarily while the situation in the region remains uncertain.
“Why Should India Need Another Country’s Approval?”
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reacted to the development and questioned why India should require approval from another country to secure its energy needs.
In a post on X, he wrote, “When the United States decides to allow India to purchase Russian oil for just 30 days, it raises a fundamental question. Why should India need another country’s approval to secure its own energy needs?”
He also referred to the reported sinking of an Iranian naval vessel by the United States after it had participated in a naval exercise hosted by India. In his post, Stalin wrote, “Equally troubling is the sinking of the unarmed Iranian warship IRIS Dena by the United States soon after it participated in the International Fleet Review 2026 naval exercise hosted by India in Visakhapatnam. When a ship that came to India as part of a multinational exercise meets such a fate, India cannot appear silent or passive.”
Stalin further criticised the Union government’s foreign policy approach and spoke about India’s tradition of strategic autonomy, stating, “The Union BJP Government looks totally compromised on India’s long-standing tradition of strategic autonomy and an independent foreign policy. India’s dignity in the international arena needs to be protected, and the nation’s sovereignty and interests need to be defended.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also reacted to the development. Questioning the situation, Thackeray asked whether India has lost the freedom it won in 1947.
– Magizh
