Overview
- Reliance bought at least 2.5 million barrels of Middle Eastern crude last week, including Basrah Medium, Al‑Shaheen and Qatar Land, according to traders.
- The refiner has stepped up spot purchases and is querying multiple suppliers for grades with characteristics similar to Russian oil.
- The procurement shift follows sustained US pressure on India to curb Russian crude imports, with President Trump’s claims of an Indian pledge disputed by New Delhi.
- A European Union ban on fuels made from Russian crude takes effect on January 21, 2026, creating potential risks for Reliance’s exports to the bloc as guidance flags India for added diligence.
- Indian refiners signal reductions rather than a halt in Russian purchases, and Reliance did not respond to requests for comment.