In a striking turn of events, India emerged as Ukraine’s largest diesel supplier in July 2025, accounting for 15.5 % of Kyiv’s imports, according to Ukrainian analytics firm NaftoRynok—surpassing all other countries, including traditional European providers. Daily shipments averaged around 2,700 tonnes, making July one of India’s most robust export months this year. From January to July, India’s share jumped to 10.2%, a dramatic leap from just 1.9% during the same period last year.
The fuel reached Ukraine via a network of routes, notably along the Danube from Romania and through the OPET terminal in Turkey, which continue to operate despite partial sanctions. The growth highlights India’s strategic role in supporting Kyiv’s energy needs at a critical juncture.
However, this development unfolds amid escalating tensions with Washington. The U.S., under President Trump, recently imposed punitive 50% tariffs on a wide array of Indian exports—doubling the previous rate—as a response to India’s persistent import of discounted Russian crude. U.S. officials argue that these oil purchases indirectly finance Russia’s war effort in Ukraine, prompting calls for India to cease such transactions to relieve tariff pressure.
Indian analysts note a striking irony: while the U.S. penalizes India for its energy ties with Moscow, Indian diesel likely refined from some of that crude is powering Ukraine’s economy. Exporters, especially in the textiles, gems, and labor-intensive sectors, now face daunting hurdles to remain competitive in a U.S. market with sharply elevated duties.
In response to the tariffs, India has signaled it will neither yield to pressure nor abandon its longstanding energy procurement strategy. Government officials emphasize strategic autonomy and economic necessity as guiding principles, with trade diversification toward other global markets underway.
