Adani Group Stops Accepting Sanctioned Vessels At Their Indian Ports Amid US Criticism on Russian Oil Purchases

India's Adani Group has stopped accepting vessels sanctioned by the European Union, the United States, and Britain at all its ports, according to sources. This move, confirmed on September 11, 2025, comes amid escalating tensions between India and the US over New Delhi's continued purchase of Russian oil.

Orders issued by Adani Ports and Logistics highlight the conglomerate's compliance with international sanctions, potentially disrupting Russian crude imports. News reports revealed that the decision affects ships involved in transporting sanctioned cargo, particularly Russian oil, which India has been buying at discounted rates since the Ukraine war began.

Meanwhile, US officials had recently ramped up criticism, accusing India of funding Russia's military offensive through these purchases. US Ambassador Matthew Whitaker claimed that oil sales to India, China, and Brazil are sustaining Moscow's operations, urging additional sanctions. Subsequently leaders of both the nations have posted messages on X re-affirming the importance of India US relations, creating a thaw in the effected relations.

It is worth noting that India has imported Russian crude worth about Rs 13. 39 lakh crore since early 2022, accounting for over 20% of Russia's war-period exports. Despite US pressure, including a proposed 50-100% tariff on Russian oil buyers suggested by former President Donald Trump, India continues to prioritize energy security.

The backdrop includes strained US-India ties, exacerbated by the stalled resolution of bribery charges against billionaire Gautam Adani. Trump aides like Peter Navarro have labelled India's actions as profiteering.