Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the conflicting narratives between the U.S. and India regarding India's purchase of Russian oil, highlighting India's strategic position between U.S. pressure and its reliance on discounted Russian oil amidst geopolitical tensions [1][3][25]. Group 1: U.S.-India Relations - Trump claimed that Indian Prime Minister Modi promised to stop buying Russian oil after a certain grace period, but the Indian Foreign Ministry denied any such conversation took place [1][3]. - The U.S. is India's largest trading partner, with a trade volume of $128.8 billion in 2024, and India has a trade surplus of $45.8 billion with the U.S. [9]. - Trump threatened to increase tariffs on Indian goods from 25% to 50% if India did not cease its Russian oil purchases, which would severely impact India's textile and electronics industries [11]. Group 2: India's Oil Dependency - Prior to the Ukraine conflict, Russian oil accounted for less than 3% of India's imports, but this figure surged to 39% by 2025 due to discounted prices [5][7]. - In 2024, India saved $5 billion by purchasing Russian oil at prices 15% lower than international rates, and it has also been reselling processed Russian oil to sanctioned European countries [7][9]. Group 3: Currency and Trade Dynamics - Russia has shifted to using the Chinese yuan for oil trade settlements due to Western sanctions, which poses challenges for India as it has been trying to internationalize the Indian rupee [13][15]. - The yuan's stability and convertibility have made it an attractive option for Russia, while the Indian rupee's lack of free convertibility limits its utility in international trade [15]. Group 4: Geopolitical Implications - The article suggests that India's dual approach of publicly denying U.S. claims while continuing to import Russian oil reflects its historical diplomatic strategy of balancing relations between major powers [19][25]. - The ongoing situation has implications for the global oil market, as it may lead to a shift away from the dollar in oil transactions, with more countries considering the yuan as a viable alternative [25].
印度突然反水!向特朗普承诺断购俄石油后,6000万桶原油却还在运
Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-18 14:55