Revealed: The Top Buyers of Russian Oil in 2025

Who's keeping the Kremlin's energy machine humming? The answer might surprise you—or confirm your darkest suspicions about global finance.

Sanctions? What sanctions? While Western politicians posture, these nations quietly vacuum up discounted barrels.

The usual suspects lead the pack. China's insatiable refineries gulp more than any other nation, turning geopolitical headaches into cheap diesel. India follows close behind, playing both sides with the precision of a Mumbai arbitrage desk.

Meanwhile, Turkey's 'neutral' stance looks increasingly like a pipeline masquerading as a country. And let's not forget the EU members still finding 'creative' ways to launder Russian crude through third countries.

Funny how 'ethical investing' disappears when there's 30% off Brent prices. The invisible hand waves while wearing a money-stained glove.

List of Countries That Are Buying the Highest Crude Oil From Russia

Right now, China is the single largest buyer of Russian oil, followed closely by India. China has remained consistently at the top since 2022 despite the sanctions. The Communist country is relentlessly buying both pipeline (ESPO) and seaborne crude. The second largest buyer of oil is India, and procurement grew post-sanctions. China was buying 1.7 million barrels per day, making it the top buyer.

India became a major purchaser of discounted Urals crude shipped by sea and brought it at cheaper prices. In addition, India also saved close to $7 billion in foreign exchange rates as the transactions were settled in local currencies. India purchased over 1.5 million barrels per day, making it the second largest buyer. Sanctions do not allow trading in the US dollar; therefore, both countries resorted to their national currencies. The Chinese yuan, Russian ruble, and Indian rupee were used for oil procurement from Russia.

Thirdly, Turkey is also among the top buyers of Russian oil, but is far behind in volume compared to China and India. Also, small refiners from Asia and the Middle East have been buying oil from Russia, but the procurement remains limited.