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India making strides in reducing reliance on Russian oil, says Rubio

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has acknowledged India's efforts to diversify its energy sources away from Russia, as the United States and New Delhi move toward finalising a comprehensive trade agreement.

LSN Malaysia · 20 October 2026

India making strides in reducing reliance on Russian oil, says Rubio

Rubio's comments underscore the strategic importance of India's energy security to the broader US-India partnership, particularly as both nations seek to strengthen economic and geopolitical ties in the Indo-Pacific region.

India, one of the world's largest energy consumers, has traditionally relied on Russian crude oil as a significant component of its energy mix. The diversification efforts come amid broader geopolitical shifts and Washington's push to reduce Moscow's economic influence globally.

The acknowledgment of India's progress in shifting its energy portfolio reflects coordinated efforts between the two countries as they negotiate trade terms. Energy security and supply chain resilience have become key considerations in their bilateral discussions.

The US-India trade negotiations are expected to address multiple sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Both nations have prioritised deepening economic integration while maintaining alignment on regional security matters in South Asia and beyond.