US Shadow Over India's Energy Security Looms Large
The United States has had a significant impact on India's energy choices for over two decades. The country's relationships with Iran, Venezuela, and Russia have been influenced by US policy towards these nations.
In recent years, India has had to adjust its energy partnerships with these countries due to changing US policies. For instance, when the US imposed sanctions on Iran in 2009-2015, India sought alternative payment mechanisms to continue purchasing Iranian oil. Similarly, when the US targeted Venezuela's oil exports in 2017, India reduced its imports from the South American country.
However, with the easing of restrictions on Venezuela in 2023 and the capture of Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, India has resumed oil imports from both countries. The US also issued a waiver for Russian oil in response to the Iran War, allowing India to continue purchasing crude from Moscow.
The dynamic relationship between the US and India's energy choices is a reality that New Delhi must contend with. To mitigate this impact, India may need to diversify its suppliers and energy sources.