India is asking the United States to extend a sanctions waiver that allows imports of Russian crude and petroleum products, according to multiple reports citing people familiar with the discussions. The waiver is linked to specific shipment timing and is set to expire on May 16. Several outlets connect the push for an extension to disruptions to energy supply from an ongoing conflict in West Asia, with reporting focusing on complications affecting supplies through the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional logistics. Business Standard reports that the US is changing the terms under the waiver extension, which could reduce the availability of sanctioned cargoes for India and increase uncertainty for refiners.
Other coverage says India is seeking continuity in order to limit potential volatility in oil markets and avoid economic impacts. News18 and Bloomberg report that India’s Russian oil imports have risen, including to record levels in May, partly because disruptions elsewhere are squeezing alternatives. Bloomberg also adds that while the waiver lapse could create near-term complications, India’s refiners may be able to manage the disruption using other supply sources, including barrels from the US and the Middle East, depending on market conditions.
