New Delhi: A Russian crude oil tanker that was sailing toward China has changed course and is now heading to India, according to ship-tracking reports.
The shift comes as international crude movements face disruption after Israel and US allied forces launched attacks on Iran. Reports said Iran has been targeting oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global oil transportation.
Amid the situation, the United States has permitted several countries, including India, to purchase crude oil from Russia. Indian refineries had planned to import around 30 million barrels of Russian crude.
Ship-tracking data indicates that a tanker carrying crude from Russia’s Baltic port, initially bound for China’s Riyao port, is now sailing toward New Mangalore and is expected to arrive on March 21.
Another vessel, identified as “Suezmax Zuuzu N,” is also reported to be heading to India and is expected to reach on March 25. In addition, reports said seven more tankers carrying Russian crude are currently en route to India.
