The Narendra Modi government has approved imports of Liquefied Natural Gas from Russia to ease India's LPG shortage, triggered by Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. A Russian LNG tanker, the Kun Peng, heads to the Dahej terminal on India's west coast, carrying cargo from the sanctioned Portovaya plant on the Baltic Sea. This step addresses immediate energy needs but risks straining relations with the United States.
Energy Crisis Sparks Urgent Import Shift
Iran's unofficial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz since February 28 has halted nearly all maritime traffic in the waterway, through which about 2.5-2.7 million barrels per day of India's crude oil imports flow. This volume represents roughly half of India's total oil imports, mainly from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait. The disruption, linked to US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has intensified a global energy crisis, hitting import-dependent nations like India hardest and fueling domestic LPG shortages.
Russian Shipment Defies US Sanctions Pressure
The Kun Peng shipment marks India's first known delivery of LNG from Russia's Portovaya facility, which faces US sanctions. Former US President Donald Trump claimed last year that Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him India would cease Russian energy purchases, though New Delhi has never confirmed such a pledge. Indian officials insist energy import decisions prioritize consumer interests and market dynamics over external pressures.
Balancing Domestic Needs Against Global Tensions
India confronts a delicate challenge in securing affordable energy while navigating international sanctions and alliances. The West Asia conflict underscores the vulnerability of key chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, which carries one-fifth of global energy supplies. This Russian LNG deal offers short-term relief for LPG consumers but could invite diplomatic friction with Washington, highlighting New Delhi's strategy of energy pragmatism amid geopolitical strains.
