US Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick has reported that Indian refiners are showing signs of cutting back on their imports of Russian oil. This assessment stems from Fitzpatrick’s recent high-level intelligence visit to India, Pakistan, and Nepal. The Congressman attributes this potential change to consistent pressure from the United States. In India, Fitzpatrick and his delegation engaged in strategic discussions with key figures, including India’s External Affairs Minister and National Security Advisors. These talks, coupled with ongoing US diplomatic efforts, appear to have prompted early signals from Indian refiners about decreasing their purchases of Russian crude oil. This shift is taking place amidst increased economic strain between the two countries, amplified by the US imposing a 50% tariff on Indian imports, with a surcharge linked to India’s Russian oil purchases.
Fitzpatrick stated that the anticipated reduction in Russian oil imports would significantly hinder Moscow’s financial capacity to sustain its war in Ukraine. He characterized the Indian response as a meaningful step towards limiting Moscow’s aggression. In addition to India, the congressional delegation also conducted oversight visits in Pakistan and Nepal, focusing on counterterrorism measures, intelligence cooperation, and regional security initiatives.