Trump’s latest threat is unlikely to affect India’s decision to source crude from Moscow as long as it’s cheaper than the alternatives.
“We will go solely by the interest of our consumers and opt for the best option price-wise. If Russian crude works out cheaper than what we can get from other sources, why should we penalise our consumers?” said a senior government source who did not rule out the possibility of India exploring further discounts from Moscow in the light of Trump’s threat.
Sources said NSA Ajit Doval’s visit to Russia, beginning Tuesday, will yield clarity on the geo-economic trilemma.
The Centre has so far not made any move to wean off Indian oil refiners from Russian crude, which comes at a steep discount compared to purchases from west Asia or US. It has not just helped keep domestic pump prices lower, but also benefited European countries, which have been major buyers of diesel and jet fuel from India, sources said.
