(MENAFN) India’s procurement of Russian crude oil is projected to hit a five-month maximum in November, a media outlet reported on Tuesday, referencing information from the ship-monitoring firm Kpler.

Purchases by New Delhi of Russian crude are expected to climb to 1.855 million barrels per day (bpd) this month, marking a 25% increase compared to October, according to the report.

“Russian supply is expected to be high in November as many refineries tried to fill the stocks prior to the US sanctions deadline and also due to the rule for oil products production for EU market from non-Russian oil from 2026,” a trading source told the news agency.

The United States announced sanctions on October 22, setting a November 21 cutoff for companies to cease dealings with Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil.

Meanwhile, the European Union has established a January 21 deadline after which it will not accept fuel from refineries that processed Russian crude within 60 days of the bill of lading.

Since 2022, Russia has remained India’s leading oil supplier, during which time India has also become a significant exporter of refined fuels to Europe.

Earlier, the US imposed 50% tariffs on India, split equally between reciprocal levies and a punitive measure targeting imports of Russian oil.

New Delhi has rejected criticism over its purchases of Russian crude, stating that its energy decisions are guided by “national interest,” while simultaneously broadening trade relations with the United States.

MENAFN27112025000045017167ID1110405001