"India's Russian Oil Imports Wane as Payment Woes Redirect Trade Flows"
Russian oil shipments are diverting from India towards the east due to payment complications, resulting in a significant drop in India's crude imports from Russia. This shift comes after the U.S. and allies imposed sanctions, including a price cap on Russian oil exports, and increased enforcement efforts. The vessels, mostly owned by Russia's Sovcomflot PJSC, are now heading towards the Malacca Strait, with China potentially absorbing the idling cargoes.