Global crisis forces Russian crude shipments to change course
March 18, 2026: Amid a deepening global energy crisis triggered by tensions involving the United States and Iran, a Russian oil tanker has diverted from its original route to China and is now heading to India. The Aframax vessel Aqua Titan, carrying Russia’s Urals crude, is expected to arrive at New Mangalore Port on March 21. The tanker had initially set course for Rizhao but made a sudden turnaround in Southeast Asian waters earlier this month, reflecting shifting global oil dynamics.
The route change comes as restrictions on Russian crude purchases eased, allowing India to increase imports to counter supply disruptions caused by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. With over 20% of global oil and LNG supplies passing through this route, its disruption has forced Indian refiners to secure alternative sources. Reports indicate that India has already purchased around 30 million barrels of Russian oil within a week to stabilise supply.
Meanwhile, multiple tankers are following a similar pattern. At least seven vessels have reportedly switched destinations from China to India, highlighting a broader shift in energy flows. Another tanker, carrying Kazakh crude, is now headed towards India’s west coast. Despite rising tensions, Indian vessels like LPG carriers have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, underlining the country’s efforts to maintain energy security during a volatile period.